7 things you cannot get away with as an immigrant in the UK

Moving to the UK sounds cute until reality checks in. Nobody really warns you about the long list of things you can not do, not because you are lazy, not because you do not want to, but simply because your visa says, “Relax, you are not British yet.”

So while you are busy blending in and adjusting to weather mood swings, here are 7 things you can not do as an immigrant in the UK.

Bring family members without approval

Not all visa types allow you to bring dependents. If your visa does not include the right to sponsor family members, inviting them without the appropriate visa will breach immigration laws. Each family member must apply for a visa in their own right or be listed as a dependent in your application, and you must meet financial and accommodation requirements.

Overstay your visa

Remaining in the UK after your visa expires is unlawful. Even if it is a short overstay, it can impact future visa applications. Individuals who obtained their visas under false pretences or stayed past their permitted time may be detained or removed. In some cases, overstaying can also lead to a re-entry ban. Visa holders must monitor expiry dates and submit renewal applications before their status ends.

Work without authorisation

If you are in the UK on a visitor visa, you are not allowed to work under any capacity. This includes taking up employment, doing unpaid internships or work placements, selling goods or services, or even starting your own business. Working without authorisation is a breach of immigration rules and can result in fines, visa cancellation, a ban on re-entry, or removal from the UK. Even volunteering in a role that could be considered work-like may be questioned.

Read also: UK records over 22,000 Nigerian asylum seekers since 2010

Study without the correct visa

You cannot enrol in further or higher education unless your visa permits it. For example, someone on a visitor visa cannot switch to a student visa within the UK or attend long-term study programmes. However, children between the ages of 5 and 16 are legally entitled to access state-funded education regardless of immigration status, as it falls under compulsory education law.

Vote in general elections

Only British citizens and certain Commonwealth citizens with the right immigration status can vote in general elections. Most immigrants, including those on work or student visas, are not eligible. You may, however, be able to vote in local or devolved elections depending on your nationality and residency status.

Claim public funds

Access to public funds is restricted for most immigrants unless you have indefinite leave to remain or refugee status. Public funds include Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Child Benefit, Jobseeker’s Allowance, and similar support schemes. Your visa conditions will state whether you have “No Recourse to Public Funds.” Claiming benefits when you are not entitled to can affect future visa renewals or settlement applications.

Engage in professional sports or coaching without a permit

Taking part in professional sports, including coaching or training roles, is not allowed unless your visa permits it. This applies to athletes, coaches, referees, and other sport-related roles. Engaging in these activities without the correct work visa could lead to deportation or refusal of future visa applications.