1. Introduction: navigating the Immigration maze
The UK immigration system is complex, layered, and ever-evolving. Whether you’re applying for a work visa, bringing family over, or preparing to settle permanently, the process is rarely straightforward. The real challenge begins when you start looking for professional help. Two key players dominate this field: immigration advisers and solicitors. But what’s the difference? And who’s the right choice for your journey?
2. Understanding the role of an Immigration Adviser
What Is an Immigration Adviser?
An immigration adviser is a professional who is trained and qualified to give advice on UK immigration matters. Unlike solicitors, advisers focus exclusively on immigration law. Many of them have personal or professional backgrounds in migration, which gives them deep insight into the human side of the process.
Levels of regulation and what they mean
In the UK, immigration advisers must be authorised by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA), which classifies advisers into three levels:
Level 1 – Basic advice and application assistance
Level 2 – Complex case handling, including appeals preparation
Level 3 – Representation at immigration tribunals
Each level defines the scope of services they can legally provide. The higher the level, the more complex work they can undertake.
3. Who regulates Immigration Advisers in the UK?
The IAA (formerly OISC) and its role
The Immigration Advice Authority (IAA), formerly known as the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC), is the regulatory body that oversees immigration advisers. Since January 2025, it has taken on a more rigorous approach to ensure that only competent, ethical professionals operate in the field.
The IAA ensures advisers meet strict standards through:
Mandatory training and certification
Ongoing compliance audits
Investigation of complaints and misconduct
If someone isn’t registered with the IAA, they legally cannot provide immigration advice in the UK (unless they are a solicitor or barrister).
4. What services can Immigration Advisers provide?
Types of applications they can handle
Depending on their accreditation level, advisers can assist with:
Work visas such as Skilled Worker, Global Talent, and more
Family visas and partner applications
Settlement and British citizenship
Business immigration routes
Student and visitor visa applications
They often provide tailored support, document preparation, and application submissions.
Limitations based on their accreditation level
However, not all advisers can take your case from start to finish. For instance:
A Level 1 adviser can’t help you with appeals or tribunal representation
Level 2 or 3 advisers can manage complex matters, including refusals and human rights cases
Always ask for their regulation level before you engage their services.
5. Understanding the role of a Solicitor
Who is a Solicitor?
A solicitor is a legally trained professional authorised to practice a broad spectrum of UK law — not just immigration. Immigration solicitors are those who specialise in immigration law and have often undergone additional training or work in dedicated immigration law firms.
Immigration Solicitors vs. General Solicitors
It’s vital to distinguish between solicitors who dabble in immigration and those who are specialists. Immigration law is nuanced, and relying on someone without niche expertise can be risky. Choose a solicitor who focuses primarily — or exclusively — on immigration matters.
6. Regulation and oversight of Solicitors
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
Solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), one of the strictest legal bodies in the UK. The SRA ensures that solicitors:
Adhere to legal ethical codes
Maintain up-to-date training
Are insured to protect clients
Face disciplinary action if they breach professional standards
This gives clients a strong layer of legal protection and recourse in case of misconduct.
7. Services offered by Immigration Solicitors
When legal representation is necessary
Solicitors are especially useful in scenarios such as:
Immigration appeals and judicial reviews
Complex asylum and human rights cases
Detention and bail applications
Sponsorship license suspension or revocation
Representation in tribunal or High Court hearings
They can issue legal correspondence and take your case before a judge if needed.
8. Comparing the cost: Adviser vs. Solicitor
Fee structures and what influences cost
Generally speaking, immigration advisers tend to charge lower fees than solicitors. This is largely because advisers often operate independently or within small firms, while solicitors usually have higher overheads and broader legal qualifications.
However, cost should not be the only deciding factor. The complexity of your case, the urgency, and the level of representation required should guide your choice.
9. Who should you choose?
Scenario-based recommendations
Still unsure? Here’s a simplified guide:
If your case is a straightforward Skilled Worker visa or a family-based application, a Level 1 or Level 2 immigration adviser might be the perfect fit — cost-effective, knowledgeable, and efficient.
But if your situation involves a visa refusal, tribunal appeal, human rights claim, or you’re facing deportation, then you need a solicitor. Their legal expertise and authority to act in court will make a real difference in the outcome.
The right expert depends entirely on the legal weight of your case.
10. Red flags: how to spot unqualified Advisors
Protecting yourself from Immigration scams
Sadly, the immigration industry has its share of bad actors. Here’s how to protect yourself:
Always check if the person is listed on the IAA or SRA register
Be wary of anyone who promises a “guaranteed visa”
Avoid advisers who operate without written agreements
Don’t trust anyone who refuses to show you their regulation details
Say no to high upfront cash payments or vague pricing
If something feels off, walk away. Your immigration status is too important to risk.
11. The verdict: making the right choice for your situation
Both immigration advisers and solicitors serve essential roles in helping people navigate UK immigration. The decision boils down to complexity and context.
For simple, well-documented applications, a regulated immigration adviser is often the most efficient and affordable route. For complicated, risky, or legally sensitive cases, a solicitor is the safer and more powerful advocate.
The key is to choose someone who is not only qualified but transparent, experienced, and deeply committed to your success.
12. About BS Immigration
BS Immigration is a fully regulated UK immigration advisory firm, authorised by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) under registration number F202331616.
We specialise in providing honest, competent, and tailored immigration solutions to individuals, families, and businesses. From work and partner visas to complex settlement cases and sponsor licence support — our team is here to guide you with professionalism and integrity.
We proudly serve clients across the globe, especially from Central Asia, the CIS, the Middle East, and beyond. With multilingual advisers and a high client success rate, BS Immigration makes the UK immigration journey smoother, smarter, and more human.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, click here.
For a full breakdown of our service costs, visit our pricing page.
