Immigration Solicitor

About the Firm

IANS Solicitors is a niche law firm specialising in helping organisations of all sectors, especially those whose job vacancies are on the UK's shortage occupation list and who require access to the international labour market to build their workforce.

The Firm has experienced unprecedented success in helping businesses protect their sponsor licences from any licence revocation action of the Home Office due to poor compliance with sponsor duties. We've seen the transformation of operators and managers through our expertise in building a revocation-proof infrastructure, resulting in businesses growing their revenues by x20.

As a result, the Firm has expanded its team to accommodate the high demand for its services from businesses on the brink of losing their licences and needing immediate help or those who want to avoid being in the same situation. Therefore, we need three immigration solicitors to join our team.

About the Role

Working directly with the Director of the Firm, the Immigration Solicitor will take on key responsibilities that include obtaining sponsor licenses for new clients, advising them on compliance with their sponsor duties, attending Home Office compliance visits, and representing clients facing suspension or revocation of their licenses. This role also entails advising sponsored workers on meeting eligibility and suitability requirements of their SOC code sponsorship offers, as well as preparing and submitting entry clearance or further leave-to-remain applications. Additionally, the solicitor will provide guidance on fulfilling leave conditions while working for their sponsors.

The solicitor will also be responsible for preparing and submitting various types of visa applications, both in-country and out-of-country, ensuring that all aspects of the immigration process are managed seamlessly for the clients.

Furthermore, our immigration solicitors have the opportunity to be keynote speakers at regular events hosted by the Firm, engaging with clients and sharing insights on the latest immigration developments and compliance requirements.

About the Applicant

We are seeking a highly qualified immigration solicitor with a minimum of three years of experience in handling a diverse range of sponsor license and visa application processes and appeals. The ideal candidate will have substantial expertise in sponsor license and skilled worker visa applications, with a particular focus on helping organisations meet their sponsor duties and providing strong legal representation in cases of license suspension or revocation.

This role demands a thorough understanding of the Sponsor Guidance and the broader regulatory framework governing immigration, including the Immigration Rules, Immigration Acts, and Home Office guidelines, policies, and procedures.

Candidates must be registered on the roll of solicitors in England and Wales with the Solicitors Regulation Authority. We need someone who can confidently navigate the complexities of demonstrating sponsor compliance within the bounds of immigration law and UK regulations.

The right candidate will possess exceptional client-handling and negotiation skills, as well as strong verbal and written communication abilities, and be committed to fostering positive client relationships. An understanding of cultural sensitivities and client vulnerabilities is essential, along with the ability to provide clear and supportive advice. Demonstrating empathy, compassion, and patience while maintaining professionalism and boundaries is essential in this role.

Attention to detail is critical to ensure compliance with procedural requirements, and exceptional time management and organisational skills are required to manage caseloads and meet strict deadlines. Efficient file management is paramount, including meeting deadlines, following established precedents, and uploading all necessary documents onto the case management system. Computer skills are essential, and familiarity with case management software, such as CLIO or LEAP, is advantageous.

It is integral to the role to be proactive in moving matters forward and keeping clients, colleagues, and stakeholders informed on case progress—whether by email, telephone, letter, or in person. Your ability to communicate effectively and efficiently will ensure our clients receive the highest standard of service.

This position is based in our offices in North Finchley, N12, and is not offered as a remote role. Candidates should be prepared to work on-site, engaging directly with clients and colleagues to ensure a high standard of service and responsiveness.

This role includes exciting opportunities for overseas travel, with all travel and accommodation expenses covered. As part of our team, you will have the chance to serve as a keynote speaker at events organised by the Firm or by clients who invite the Firm as a resource. This aspect of the role allows you to share your expertise in immigration law on an international stage, connecting with clients and stakeholders across diverse locations.

About the Competencies

The key competencies required to excel in this role include:

• Expertise in Sponsorship Rules: Strong knowledge of Immigration Rules, Sponsor Guidance, and Home Office procedures; skilled in sponsor licenses, visa applications, and compliance.
• Client Management: Exceptional client-handling, negotiation, and relationship-building skills; culturally sensitive with a supportive approach.
• Communication: Clear written/verbal communication and public speaking skills for client updates and keynote presentations.
• Detail-Oriented Compliance: High accuracy in case management, documentation, and meeting procedural standards.
• Organisational Skills: Effective time management to balance caseloads, meet deadlines, and ensure efficient case progression.
• Tech Proficiency: Strong computer skills; experience with case management systems (LEAP / CLIO experience advantageous).
• Proactive and Adaptable: Self-motivated with initiative; flexible for overseas travel as a Firm representative.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £50,000.00-£60,000.00 per year

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• London: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (preferred)

Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 22/11/2024
Reference ID: IMS-091124
Expected start date: 02/12/2024