Voices in Exile has created a bespoke immigration toolkit to assist service users going through various immigration applications.
The toolkit features breakdowns of evidence needs, guides on how to gather evidence, and online forms needed.
This resource can be used by anyone submitting these applications, and is not just for Voices in Exile clients. Please share the toolkit with whomever may find it useful.
Immigration toolkit resources
How to: Write a Witness Statement
Clearly outline your observations or experiences, including relevant dates, times, and details. Use a structured format, with your name, date, and signature. Ensure the statement is truthful, concise, and free of errors.
How to: Send identification
Provide a clear copy of your ID (passport, driving licence, or other official document). Ensure details are visible, and send securely via email or post, following instructions. Keep a copy for your records.
How to: Send Financial Evidence
Collect documents such as bank statements, payslips, benefit letters, or rent receipts. Ensure they are recent, accurate, and clearly show your financial situation. Organise and store them securely.
How to: Send a Bank Statement
Obtain a recent statement, ensure your name is visible, redact sensitive details if needed, and send securely via email or post. Keep a copy for your records.
How to: Prove Evidence of Contact
Provide records such as emails, text messages, call logs, or letters demonstrating communication. Include details like dates, times, and names of the individuals involved. Ensure evidence is organised, clear, and securely stored.
How to: Letterheads and Official Paperwork
Use the organisation’s official letterhead for all formal communications. Ensure it includes the charity’s name, logo, address, registration details, and contact information. Proofread all documents for accuracy, maintain a professional tone, and keep copies for records.
How to: Send Information to Your Caseworker
Gather all required documents and information relevant to your case. Clearly label each item with your name and case reference number. Send the information securely via email or post, following your caseworker’s preferred method of communication. Always keep copies of everything you send.
Refugee Travel Documents
Official documents issued by the UK Home Office to refugees recognised under the 1951 Refugee Convention, enabling international travel when they cannot use their national passports.
Refugee Family Reunion
A process allowing immediate family members (spouse/partner and children under 18) of a person granted refugee status or humanitarian protection in the UK to apply to join them, promoting family unity.
Leave to Remain: Private Life in the UK
Permission granted by the UK Home Office allowing a person to stay in the UK based on their established private life, such as long residence, significant ties, or other compelling circumstances under immigration rules.
Leave to Remain: Partner
Permission granted by the UK Home Office allowing a person to stay in the UK based on their relationship with a British citizen, someone settled in the UK, or a person with refugee status or humanitarian protection.
Leave to Remain: Parent
Permission granted by the UK Home Office allowing a person to stay in the UK for a specific period or indefinitely, depending on their application and circumstances.
Fee waiver
A fee waiver application may be submitted if you do not have the funds to pay for Home Office application fees or the Immigration Health Surcharge.