Check out this comprehensive guide on UK immigration from Zambia
For anyone who wants to immigrate to the UK, details may seem sketchy at times. The process is however not as confusing at it looks. The pointers below will help demystify the process.
1. Find out what visa type you need.
- The visa type depends on your purpose for going to the UK. For example, a skilled worker from Lusaka will apply for either a Tier 1 or 2 visa. If your intention is to join your spouse, request a spousal visa. Skilled worker visas are however the most common means that people use to immigrate to the UK.
2. Financial Capability.
- You will need to prove your capacity to support yourself financially if you do not get a job immediately. Applicants for the Tier 1 visa usually need to show proof of resources for either investment or setting up a business.
3. Have a valid reason for leaving your home country.
- When you make your application, you must be ready to defend your decision for immigrating to the UK. The UK immigration authorities should be convinced of your usefulness to the economy. It would help to have references from your present employer in Zambia, indicating competency in your field of specialization.
4. Documentation.
- The authorities will ask you to produce certain documents during the application process. If you want your request to be successful, make sure your passport is valid, and that all your supporting documents are up to date. Make sure that the documents presented are genuine, as falsified documentation will lead to immediate disqualification.
5. Take the interview seriously.
- UK immigration officials take visa interviews very seriously, and as such, the interviewee should be well prepared. Go over possible questions in your head and anticipate the answers. Get to your interview early and make sure that you have all the documentation ready. Pay the visa application fee well in advance. Also, remember to dress formally to make a good impression.
6. Make your intentions clear.
- Most people do not succeed in the application process because they are not clear about their intentions. If asked where you intend to live, how long you hope to stay in the country and what your purpose of being in the UK is, be honest. Do not lie on your application, or during the interview.
7. Check that your job qualifications are relevant.
- If you intend to look for a job after relocating, make sure that your qualifications are compatible with your chosen profession. If you plan to secure a job before moving, first check that your skills will be useful to the UK economy. Academic certificates and recommendations from previous employers in Zambia will come in handy. Note that if you work for a UK company in your home country, you can get a transfer to the UK. Applying for residency after that will be much easier.
The points listed above give you a good idea of what the UK immigration authorities require from all prospective migrants from Lusaka . Now that you have the correct information, go ahead and make that application.