OISC Immigration Advisers in the UK

The Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) is the UK government body that regulates immigration advisers who are not solicitors or barristers. Under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999, it is a criminal offence to provide paid immigration advice in the UK without being OISC-registered or regulated by the Law Society / Bar Council. Always verify an adviser's status at oisc.gov.uk.

OISC regulates advisers in three levels of competence: Level 1 covers straightforward applications (visitor visas, extending leave, EEA residence). Level 2 covers more complex applications (settlement, nationality, PBS casework beyond Level 1). Level 3 covers the most complex matters including appeals and advocacy before the First-tier Tribunal. Check an adviser's specific authorised categories before instructing them.

Immigration solicitors are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and can represent you in court. OISC advisers can handle a wide range of applications and, at Level 3, can appear before immigration tribunals. For judicial review or complex litigation, an immigration solicitor or barrister is required. Solicitors are generally more expensive but may have broader scope.

Search the OISC public register at oisc.gov.uk. The register shows the organisation name, OISC registration number, authorised activities, and the individual caseworkers covered by that registration.

Fees vary significantly. Simple applications (visitor extensions, student visas) may cost £300–£800. Settlement (ILR) applications typically cost £800–£2,000. Skilled Worker or complex PBS applications are usually £1,000–£3,500+. All regulated advisers must provide a client care letter and written fee agreement before starting work.

Yes, if they hold Level 2 or Level 3 OISC authorisation for Points-Based System casework. Always check the specific categories the adviser is authorised for, as Level 1 advisers cannot handle Skilled Worker applications.