Home-based visa and immigration adviser

Individuals and families applying to come to or stay in the UK, often through word of mouth or community links.

Fixed fee per application or stage, sometimes with a paid first consultation. Extra fees for reviews, appeals support or follow-up work, where your authorisation level allows.

• Careful attention to detail
• Clear, patient communication
• Reading and applying official guidance
• Handling sensitive personal information

• Giving immigration advice usually needs authorisation from a regulator such as the OISC, check before taking any fees
• Professional indemnity insurance and complaints procedures are likely to be expected
• Data protection: register with the ICO if required and store documents securely
• Rules change often, so allow time for regular updates and training
• You cannot promise a visa will be granted, so keep your marketing honest

Startup costs are typically around £1,500 to £6,000, depending on your setup, insurance and the training or authorisation you need. These are estimates, so get quotes for insurance and any regulator fees before you commit.

Giving immigration advice usually needs authorisation from a regulator such as the OISC, so check before taking any fees. Also check professional indemnity insurance, a complaints procedure and whether you need to register with the ICO.

Monthly revenue is typically around £800 to £4,000, depending on how many clients you take on and the types of application you handle. The estimate assumes at least 10 hours a week, and you should never promise a visa will be granted.