The UK remains one of the most popular destinations for Pakistani nationals seeking better education, employment, family reunification, or long-term settlement. However, moving from Pakistan to the UK is not a simple matter of booking a flight. It’s a multi-stage legal process governed by the UK’s immigration laws, which change frequently and demand precision at every step.
Whether you’re considering a UK work visa, student visa, family visa, or applying under the UK settlement route, it’s essential to understand the legal framework, required documents, timelines, and potential challenges.
Axis Solicitors specialises in helping Pakistani nationals navigate the complex web of UK immigration law. We’ve supported thousands of successful applications — and we’re here to do the same for you.
Why the UK?
The UK offers high-quality healthcare, education, job opportunities, and a stable legal system. It’s home to a thriving Pakistani community and supports multicultural integration. With over 1.5 million British Pakistanis already settled, it’s a familiar yet promising destination.
Top Reasons for Pakistani Nationals to Move to the UK:
- Education: World-class universities and career pathways
- Employment: Legal access to skilled jobs in high-demand sectors
- Family Reunification: Join spouses, children, or dependent relatives
- Humanitarian Protection: For eligible applicants facing persecution
- Permanent Settlement: Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship
Understanding the correct immigration route from the outset can make or break your application. That’s why we advise early legal consultation.
What are the UK Visa Options for Pakistani Nationals
When moving from Pakistan to the UK, the visa you apply for must align precisely with your purpose of travel. Each visa type has strict eligibility criteria, required documentation, processing times, and implications for long-term stay or settlement.
Below are the main visa categories Pakistani nationals frequently use.
1. UK Visit Visa (Standard Visitor Visa)
While not a route for permanent relocation, the Standard Visitor Visa is often a first step for many exploring opportunities in the UK. This visa allows short-term travel for tourism, business meetings, or visiting family.
Key Facts:
- Valid up to 6 months
- No access to work or public funds
- Requires proof of return intent and financial means
This visa cannot be converted into another immigration category from within the UK. A separate visa application is required for longer-term relocation.
2. UK Student Visa from Pakistan
If you’re planning to study in the UK for more than six months, you’ll need a Student visa (formerly Tier 4). This is a common pathway for young Pakistani nationals aiming for international qualifications.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a licensed UK institution
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, SELT)
- Financial capacity to cover tuition and living costs
Important Notes:
- Students can work part-time during term and full-time during breaks
- Post-study work opportunities available via the Graduate Route, allowing a two-year stay after completing a degree
3. UK Work Visa for Pakistanis
The Skilled Worker visa (formerly Tier 2) is the primary route for Pakistani professionals looking to live and work in the UK legally.
Core Requirements:
- Job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence
- Role listed on the UK Shortage Occupation List (or meeting minimum salary thresholds)
- English proficiency
- Proof of qualifications and experience
Other work-related options include:
- Health and Care Worker visa
- Global Talent visa
- Temporary Worker visas
Axis Solicitors helps ensure your employment offer, sponsorship, and documentation are fully compliant with UK Home Office standards — reducing the risk of refusal.
4. Family Visa UK
One of the most common routes for Pakistani nationals is through family visas — particularly spouse visas and dependent child visas.
Spouse Visa UK:
Allows Pakistani nationals to join their British or settled spouse or partner.
Key Requirements:
- Genuine and subsisting relationship
- Financial threshold met
- English language proficiency (A1 level minimum)
- Suitable accommodation
The initial visa is granted for 2.5 years, with spouse visa extension available and a route to Indefinite Leave to Remain as a spouse after 5 years.
Other family visa routes include:
- Fiancé(e) visas
- Parent of a British child visa
- Adult dependent relative visa (high refusal rate; legal support strongly advised)
5. UK Settlement Visa
A UK settlement visa is not a separate visa type but refers to immigration routes that lead to permanent residence (Indefinite Leave to Remain). Spouse visa holders, skilled workers, and long-term residents may be eligible to apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous lawful stay.
Benefits of ILR:
- No immigration restrictions
- Access to public funds
- Pathway to British citizenship
6. Humanitarian Protection and Asylum
For Pakistani nationals fleeing persecution based on religion, gender, sexuality, political beliefs, or other protected grounds, the UK offers asylum and humanitarian protection.
This is a highly sensitive and complex area of immigration law. Every case must be supported with evidence and legal arguments. Axis Solicitors provides confidential representation for asylum seekers in full compliance with UK and international law.
What are the Steps or Process for Moving from Pakistan to UK
Successfully moving from Pakistan to UK requires careful planning, correct documentation, and compliance with UK immigration law. It’s not just about securing a visa — it’s about navigating a legal system where every detail matters.
Here’s a detailed, legally accurate step-by-step process to follow when moving from Pakistan to UK, whether for work, study, or family reasons.
Step 1: Choose the Right Immigration Route for Moving from Pakistan to UK
Before anything else, determine the correct visa category. The most common routes for moving from Pakistan to UK include:
- Skilled Worker Visa
- Student Visa
- Spouse or Family Visa
- Visit Visa (short-term only)
- Settlement or Humanitarian Protection
Choosing the wrong visa type can result in delays, refusals, or rejections. Legal advice is essential when planning to move from Pakistan to UK under complex routes.
Step 2: Verify Your Eligibility to Move from Pakistan to UK
Each visa route for moving from Pakistan to UK has strict eligibility criteria. In most cases, you’ll need to demonstrate:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity
- Proof of financial self-sufficiency
- English language skills (through IELTS or SELT)
- A genuine relationship (for family visas)
- An official offer of employment or admission (for work/study visas)
Axis Solicitors helps verify whether you’re eligible for moving from Pakistan to UK under your intended route.
Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents for Your UK Visa Application
When moving from Pakistan to UK, document preparation is critical. Depending on your route, required documents may include:
- Passport and CNIC (Computerised National Identity Card)
- Educational certificates and transcripts
- Bank statements covering at least 28 days
- English test results (IELTS/UKVI)
- Letter of admission or job offer
- Marriage certificate and relationship evidence (for family visas)
- TB test certificate from an approved clinic in Pakistan
Incorrect, expired, or poorly translated documents can derail your plan for moving from Pakistan to UK. We strongly recommend legal vetting before submission.
Step 4: Submit Your Visa Application for Moving from Pakistan to UK
All visa applications for moving from Pakistan to UK are submitted online via the official Gov.uk portal. You must:
- Fill out the correct visa form
- Input accurate personal, travel, and financial details
- Pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Axis Solicitors assists with drafting, reviewing, and submitting visa applications to ensure compliance with UK immigration law.
Step 5: Pay Required Fees for Moving from Pakistan to UK
Before your application is processed, you’ll need to pay:
- Visa Application Fee (varies by visa type)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – £1,035 per year for long-term visas
These are mandatory fees when moving from Pakistan to UK for more than six months. Incomplete payments can result in application rejection.
Step 6: Book a Biometric Appointment in Pakistan
After submission, you’ll be required to book a biometric appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Pakistan — typically located in Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi.
At the appointment, you’ll:
- Submit fingerprints and a photograph
- Hand in your passport
- Provide original documents or upload them digitally
Biometrics are a legal requirement for anyone moving from Pakistan to UK, and failure to attend this step on time can void your application.
Step 7: Wait for a Decision on Your Application to Move from Pakistan to UK
Processing times vary depending on your visa category:
- Visit Visa – approx. 3 weeks
- Student Visa – 3 to 6 weeks
- Spouse Visa – 8 to 12 weeks or more
- Skilled Worker Visa – approx. 3 weeks
During this stage, the Home Office may contact you for additional documents or an interview. Axis Solicitors monitors the progress of your application and manages any communication with UKVI on your behalf.
Step 8: Receive a Decision and Collect Your Passport
Once a decision is made, you’ll be notified to collect your passport. If approved, a UK entry vignette sticker will be placed inside, usually valid for 30 or 90 days.
You must travel within this window to continue moving from Pakistan to UK legally.
Step 9: Travel to the UK and Collect Your BRP
After arriving in the UK, you must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days. It confirms your legal status and includes visa conditions.
Failure to collect your BRP on time can affect your immigration record — so this step is essential in finalising your process of moving from Pakistan to UK.
Step 10: Begin Your Legal Stay in the UK
Once your BRP is collected, you’re fully authorised to:
- Work, study, or live in the UK (based on your visa conditions)
- Open a bank account
- Register with a GP
- Apply for further extensions or Indefinite Leave to Remain in due course
This marks the successful completion of your legal journey in moving from Pakistan to UK
What are the Common Challenges faced and How to Avoid them.
Visa refusals can be financially, emotionally, and legally devastating — especially for applicants from Pakistan, where rejection rates for certain visa categories are disproportionately high. Many applicants face delays or outright denials due to errors that could have been prevented with expert legal support.
Here are the top challenges and how to mitigate them.
1. Incomplete or Inconsistent Documentation
Problem: Missing, inconsistent, or poorly translated documents are a primary cause of refusal. For instance, if your bank statement doesn’t cover the required 28-day period, your visa can be refused outright.
Solution:
- Prepare a full checklist based on your visa type
- Use certified translations for all non-English documents
- Let a solicitor review your documents before submission
2. Failure to Meet Financial Requirements
Problem: UK visas — particularly spouse and student visas — impose strict financial thresholds. The Home Office examines the source, consistency, and legitimacy of your funds.
Solution:
- Ensure your income meets the required minimum (e.g., £18,600 for spouse visa)
- Avoid large unexplained deposits
- Use official bank statements and sponsor declarations if necessary
3. Weak Evidence of Relationship (Spouse/Partner Visas)
Problem: Many Pakistani applicants are refused on the grounds that their relationship is not “genuine and subsisting.” The Home Office requires proof beyond a marriage certificate.
Solution:
- Provide a timeline of your relationship, chat logs, travel records, photos
- Submit detailed witness statements if applicable
- Include evidence of ongoing communication and financial dependency
4. Lack of Preparation for Interview
Problem: Some applicants are called for interviews and fail to answer basic questions about their sponsor, course, or job offer.
Solution:
- Practice likely questions with a legal advisor
- Be honest and concise — don’t over-explain or contradict your documents
- Review your application thoroughly before attending any interview
5. Incorrect Visa Category Selection
Problem: Choosing the wrong visa or assuming you can switch categories from within the UK can lead to an automatic refusal.
Solution:
- Get legal advice before applying
- If your circumstances change, withdraw and reapply under the correct route
- Don’t rely on advice from unqualified agents or online forums
6. Applying Without Legal Representation
Problem: DIY applications often fall short on technical requirements or fail to address weak areas of the case.
Solution:
- Engage an immigration solicitor early in the process
- Let them draft a strong cover letter and legal representation statement
- They can respond to Home Office queries and appeals professionally
Axis Solicitors offers an evidence-driven, legally grounded approach to immigration applications — drastically improving approval rates.
7. Ignoring Immigration History
Problem: Overstays, previous refusals, or visa violations (even in other countries) can count against your UK application.
Solution:
- Be honest about past immigration issues
- Provide supporting evidence to show circumstances have changed
- Let your solicitor address the issue in legal arguments
Why Choose Axis Solicitors?
1. Expertise in UK Immigration Law
Our solicitors are fully accredited and experienced in handling a wide range of UK immigration cases — including high-risk or previously refused applications. We keep pace with Home Office changes and bring deep legal insight to every case.
2. Dedicated Support for Pakistani Clients
We understand the specific challenges faced by Pakistani applicants — from bank verification to TB testing to relationship evidence. We also consider local cultural and legal nuances when preparing your application.
3. Personalised Case Strategies
No two cases are the same. That’s why we build tailored strategies, prepare thorough legal submissions, and anticipate complications before they arise.
4. Transparent Fees and Honest Advice
We believe in clarity, not confusion. You’ll know exactly what to expect — from timelines to costs — and we’ll never advise you to apply unless we believe you have a strong case.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the easiest way of moving from Pakistan to UK?
The easiest route for moving from Pakistan to UK depends on your situation. Commonly, the Spouse Visa, Student Visa, and Skilled Worker Visa offer streamlined legal pathways if you meet all requirements. Axis Solicitors helps applicants choose the most viable route for successful relocation.
2. Can I work in the UK on a student visa after moving from Pakistan?
Yes. If you’re moving from Pakistan to UK on a Student Visa, you’re allowed to work:
- Up to 20 hours per week during term time
- Full-time during university holidays
After graduation, you may stay in the UK through the Graduate Route, which allows post-study employment.
3. What’s the minimum salary requirement for moving from Pakistan to UK on a Skilled Worker visa?
If you’re moving from Pakistan to UK to work under a Skilled Worker visa, the general minimum salary threshold is £38,700 (as of April 2024). Lower thresholds may apply for jobs on the Shortage Occupation List or in the healthcare sector.
4. How long does it take to get a spouse visa when moving from Pakistan to UK?
If you’re moving from Pakistan to UK on a spouse visa, expect a processing time of 8 to 12 weeks. Delays are common, especially without legal representation. Axis Solicitors can help prepare a strong application to reduce risks and speed up the process.
5. Is a TB test required for moving from Pakistan to UK?
Yes. Anyone moving from Pakistan to UK for more than 6 months must provide a valid Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate from a UK-approved medical facility in Pakistan.
6. Can I switch to another visa after moving from Pakistan to UK on a visit visa?
No. If you’re moving from Pakistan to UK on a Visitor Visa, you cannot switch to a different visa (like a work or spouse visa) while inside the UK. You must return to Pakistan and apply from there.
7. What if my visa for moving from Pakistan to UK is refused?
If your visa is refused, your plans for moving from Pakistan to UK are temporarily delayed — not over. You may be eligible to:
- Request an Administrative Review
- File an Appeal (in some cases)
- Submit a new, corrected application
Axis Solicitors specialises in challenging refusals and building strong reapplications.
8. Can Axis Solicitors assist me while I’m still in Pakistan and planning to move to the UK?
Yes. We offer remote legal services for individuals moving from Pakistan to UK, including:
- Case assessments
- Application preparation
- Document reviews
- Interview training
You don’t need to be in the UK to benefit from professional support.
9. Do I need a lawyer for moving from Pakistan to UK?
While not legally required, having a lawyer can significantly increase your success when moving from Pakistan to UK. Solicitors help you meet visa requirements, avoid errors, and handle appeals if necessary.
10. Can I bring family with me when moving from Pakistan to UK on a work or study visa?
Yes. If you’re moving from Pakistan to UK as a Skilled Worker or Student, you can bring:
- Your spouse or partner
- Children under 18
You’ll need to prove financial ability to support your dependants.
Ready to Move from Pakistan to the UK? Let Axis Solicitors Help
At Axis Solicitors, we specialise in helping individuals and families from Pakistan move to the UK legally, confidently, and successfully. Our experienced immigration solicitors offer end-to-end legal support for:
- Visa Applications
- Appeals & Reapplications
- Settlement & British Citizenship
- Family Reunion
- Complex or Previously Refused Cases
We offer the best consultations and guide you through every step — from eligibility to arrival in the UK. Contact us to take the first step today.
