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Preparing for Your First Consultation

A little preparation helps you get the most from your first meeting with an immigration adviser. Here is what to expect, what to bring and the questions worth asking.

What Happens at a First Consultation

Your first consultation is a conversation about your situation. We will ask about your immigration history, your family and your plans, then explain:

  • which immigration routes may be open to you;
  • the main requirements for each route and any risks;
  • the documents and evidence you are likely to need;
  • realistic timescales and the next steps;
  • our fees and any Home Office fees involved.

The consultation is a starting point. We only act for you once we have confirmed our advice and terms in writing.

Before the Meeting

Spend a few minutes getting your thoughts in order. It helps to:

  • Write down your goal. For example, joining your partner in the UK, extending your visa or applying for settlement.
  • Make a simple timeline. List the visas you have held, with dates, and note any refusals or other Home Office decisions.
  • Check your deadlines. Note when your current permission expires and any dates you have been given by the Home Office.
  • List the people involved. Include any partner, children or other family members who may be part of the application.

What to Bring

  • Your current and previous passports
  • Details of your current immigration status, such as your eVisa or biometric residence permit
  • Any Home Office letters, decisions or refusals
  • Documents linked to your route, such as a marriage certificate, job offer or university offer
  • Proof of your current address
  • Your list of questions

Copies are fine for a first meeting. We will tell you later which originals we need to see.

Questions You May Want to Ask

  • Which route is the best fit for my circumstances, and why?
  • What are the main requirements, and do I meet them now?
  • What could cause problems with my application?
  • Which documents will I need, and how recent must they be?
  • How long is the process likely to take?
  • What are your fees, and what are the Home Office fees?
  • What happens if the application is refused?

After the Consultation

If you decide to go ahead, we will confirm our advice and your next steps in writing, together with a client care letter setting out our fees and terms. We will then help you start gathering your evidence. Our guide to organising your application documents explains how.

Please note: this guide is general information and is not legal advice. Immigration rules change often. Please contact us for advice on your own circumstances. Last reviewed November 2026.

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