Elite UK Business Immigration Strategy for Employers and Investors
At First Law Solicitors, we help UK employers, investors and global professionals secure the people and permissions that power their growth. Our team delivers commercially strategic, fully compliant immigration solutions for businesses hiring or relocating international talent.
Based in Manchester and advising clients across the UK and worldwide, we are regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA ID No: 665823).
Whether you are an HR Director, business owner or investor, we deliver clarity, certainty and control.
Our solicitors act as your long-term immigration partners and not just form-filers who ensure your business stays ahead of Home Office reform.
We work across multiple sectors including technology, engineering, manufacturing, healthcare, education and finance, guiding clients through every stage of the immigration lifecycle.
We begin by understanding your workforce plan, business goals and five-year expansion strategy. We ensure every visa route and SOC code aligns with your commercial priorities.
Our applications go beyond minimum Home Office requirements. We prepare comprehensive documentation bundles that anticipate the 2026 algorithmic review systems and DCER audit standards.
We manage timescales proactively using the Home Office’s Priority and Super Priority Services, securing results in as little as 24 hours to 5 days where available.
Once approvals are granted, we manage ongoing compliance through Sponsor Management System (SMS) supervision, record audits and Key Personnel training for protecting your licence from revocation risk.
We prepare, submit and maintain Sponsor Licences under the Digital Compliance Evidence Review (DCER)framework. Licences now roll forward automatically under a 10-year cycle, but compliance enforcement is stricter than ever. Our solicitors conduct mock audits, staff training, and internal policy reviews to ensure your systems pass inspection.
Under the July 2025 reforms, the minimum salary threshold is £41,700 per year or the going rate, whichever is higher. A discounted threshold of £33,400 applies to new entrants, PhD holders, and roles on the Immigration Salary List (ISL). We ensure correct SOC 2020/2024 coding and full evidence for the Home Office Genuineness Test.
For multinational staff transfers, the Senior or Specialist Worker threshold is £52,500 for Certificates of Sponsorship issued after 22 July 2025. The Graduate Trainee threshold is now £27,300. These routes do not directly lead to settlement, but our lawyers plan long-term transition strategies into ILR-eligible categories.
For entrepreneurs, the Innovator Founder Visa allows scalable business creation with approved endorsement. Successful applicants can achieve Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) within three years if performance markers are met.
English Language Upgrade (8 January 2026)
The required English proficiency level increases from B1 to B2 for Skilled Worker and Partner routes.
Automated HMRC Compliance Triggers
Real-time information (RTI) data now powers Home Office audits. Our HR protocols pre-empt alerts and prevent licence downgrades.
Dependants Restriction (July 2025)
Mid-skilled (RQF 3–5) workers under the Temporary Shortage List (TSL) cannot bring dependants. We restructure staffing models to maintain retention.
Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) 2025 Update
Effective 16 December 2025: £1,320 per year for large sponsors and £480 per year for small or charitable organisations.
PhD-level scientific and R&D roles (SOC 2111–2119) are now ISC exempt to support UK innovation.
If your business requires structured immigration support, sponsor licensing or global mobility planning, speak to First Law Solicitors today.
We deliver strategic, compliant and commercially sound immigration solutions that protect your people and strengthen your business.
Call 0044 161 224 4066
Complete our online enquiry form to arrange a confidential consultation.
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