Asylum and Immigration Law
Asylum and immigration law in England and Wales governs the legal framework for individuals seeking to enter or remain in the country. It includes a range of regulations and procedures that address different categories of immigrants, including asylum seekers, refugees, and economic migrants. Understanding asylum and immigration law is essential for ensuring that individuals receive fair treatment and that the integrity of the immigration system is maintained. This area of law requires practitioners to be knowledgeable, compassionate, and skilled in navigating legal complexities to effectively support their clients.
Welcome to the world of immigration and asylum Law practice
Welcome to the exciting field of immigration law. As an aspiring immigration practitioner, you'll be at the forefront of helping individuals, families and businesses navigate the complex and ever-changing immigration system. Your daily work will involve meeting clients, preparing applications, researching legal precedents, and representing clients at hearings. You’ll need empathy, attention to detail, and a strong understanding of immigration policies. This page will introduce you to the day-to-day responsibilities and provide valuable tips to help you succeed in this rewarding and impactful career.
One of the most complex areas of law
Not for the faint-hearted, this is a complex and dynamic area of legal practice focused on the regulation of entry into, residence in, and removal of individuals from, the country. It also involves protecting the rights of individuals seeking asylum from persecution. Aspiring lawyers specialising in this field will engage with various legal processes, policies, and advocacy efforts to assist clients with their immigration and asylum needs.
Here’s an overview of this practice area
Nature of work
Immigration law
Assisting clients with visas, residency, citizenship applications, and dealing with issues such as deportation and detention.
Asylum law
Representing individuals seeking refuge due to fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership of a particular social group.
Strategic litigation
Strategic litigation involves using legal action deliberately and strategically to bring about significant changes in the law, policy, or public awareness.
Key competencies
Client advising
Providing advice on immigration status, visa options, and asylum claims. Explaining legal rights and obligations.
Application drafting
Preparing and submitting applications for visas, residency, citizenship, and asylum. Ensuring all necessary documentation is provided.
Advocacy
Representing clients at hearings and appeals before immigration tribunals and courts. Advocating on behalf of clients in front of the Home Office and other relevant authorities.
Legal research
Staying updated on the constantly changing immigration laws, policies, and regulations.
Negotiation and support
Assisting and negotiating remedies for vulnerable clients, including unaccompanied minors, victims of trafficking, and those with mental health issues.
Knowledge development
The OISC accreditation system is to further your knowledge in immigration practice and develop new skills and revenue streams for your employer. It has three levels, each indicating the complexity of the advice and services that advisers are qualified to provide.
Additional training
Practical experience: Engaging in internships, volunteer work, or paralegal positions in law firms or organisations specialising in immigration and asylum law. Specialised training: Gaining knowledge in immigration and asylum law through specialised courses and workshops, including the Law Society Immigration and Asylum Law Accreditation (IALA).
Read about Immigration and Asylum Law Accreditation (IALA) accreditation
Which kind of organisations do this work?
Law firms: Working in firms with dedicated immigration and asylum law departments. Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs): Providing legal assistance and advocacy for immigrants and asylum seekers. Government agencies: Working for agencies like the Home Office or UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Charities and advocacy groups: Supporting vulnerable populations through legal aid and advocacy. Barristers’ chambers: Specialising in immigration and asylum cases as a caseworker
Immigration Law Practitioners' Association (ILPA)
ILPA have a member's directory for all of their member immigration services providers. Click the link below.
Find Immigration law firms with ILPA
Government's immigration advisor finder
Use the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) Adviser Finder below to find a registered adviser near you. All immigration advisers must be registered with OISC or be a member of an approved professional body.
Find Immigration practitioners here
Professional bodies and resources
- The Law Society: Provides resources and support for solicitors.
- The Bar Council: Represents barristers and provides relevant information and resources.
- Immigration Law Practitioners’ Association (ILPA): A professional association offering training, resources, and support for immigration lawyers.
- Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC): Regulates immigration advisers and ensures quality and ethical standards.
- Asylum Support Appeals Project (ASAP): Provides legal representation and support for asylum seekers.
- Rights of Women: offering immigration and asylum advice services using volunteer legal advisers