Glossary

A reference number assigned by a licensed sponsor for certain work routes. It links to the job and sponsor details used in an application.

Permission for an organisation to sponsor workers or students under specific UK routes, subject to ongoing compliance duties.

A charge paid by many applicants for access to the UK’s NHS during their permission to stay.

Fingerprint and facial image collection used to confirm identity as part of the application process.

A physical card previously used as evidence of immigration status for some people. Digital status is increasingly used; check current guidance.

Checks employers carry out to confirm someone is allowed to work in the UK under immigration rules.

A reference number issued by a sponsoring education provider, used to support a Student route application.

Permission to live in the UK without time limits, sometimes called ‘settlement’.

Permission granted to stay in the UK for a particular purpose and time period under the Immigration Rules.

Permission to enter the UK granted before travel for routes requiring a visa.

A visa sticker placed in a passport in some cases. Often time-limited and used for initial travel.

An optional paid service (where available) that may shorten decision times. Availability varies.

A family member who applies as part of a main applicant’s route (where the rules allow).

Money you may need to show you can support yourself (and dependants) without relying on public funds.

A requirement on some routes to demonstrate English ability through an approved test or other permitted evidence.

A Student route requirement relating to intention to study and meeting route conditions.

A code used to classify job roles for sponsorship and salary threshold checks under eligible occupation lists.

A minimum salary level required under some routes. It can vary by role and circumstances.

Applying inside the UK to change from one immigration route to another, subject to route rules.

Shortening of permission to stay, for example if sponsorship ends or conditions are not met.

A process to request that a decision be checked for errors, available in certain circumstances.

A legal process to challenge certain immigration decisions, available only for some decision types.

The formal legal rules setting requirements for visas and leave to remain in the UK.

A section of the Immigration Rules containing detailed requirements for a route or topic.

Ongoing obligations on a sponsor, such as reporting changes, keeping records, and ensuring compliance.

An official who assesses an application against the Immigration Rules and guidance.

Benefits and support that many visa holders are restricted from accessing; restrictions depend on conditions.

Restrictions attached to permission, such as work limits or ‘no recourse to public funds’.

Common abbreviation for the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Common abbreviation for Certificate of Sponsorship.