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 or Bar Council. Always verify an adviser's status at oisc.gov.uk.

OISC regulates advisers across three levels: Level 1 covers straightforward applications. Level 2 covers complex PBS casework, settlement, and nationality applications. Level 3 covers appeals and advocacy before the First-tier Tribunal. Always check an adviser's specific authorised categories before instructing them.

Immigration solicitors are regulated by the 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, a solicitor or barrister is required.

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

Simple applications 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.

The UK Skilled Worker visa requires 70 points. Mandatory points include: job offer from a licensed sponsor (20 pts), role at RQF Level 3 or above (20 pts), and salary meeting the threshold (20 pts). Tradeable points can top up with English language (10 pts), shortage occupation (20 pts), or a PhD (10–20 pts). An OISC adviser can help you identify whether your role qualifies and structure your application correctly.

Yes — OISC Level 2 advisers commonly handle spouse (FLR(M)) and partner visa applications. Evidence requirements for UK partner visas are strict: the financial requirement, genuine relationship evidence, English language requirements, and accommodation evidence all need to be prepared carefully. An experienced adviser significantly reduces the risk of refusal.