Post
by NikiGio » Mon Nov 19, 2018 4:07 pm
It depends on the complexity of the application and the strength of your evidence.
If yours is a straightforward application and you have good evidence, I'd suggest doing it without a solicitor - I did my application myself (worker, here from 2010, 5 P60s to prove work and residency, bills to prove continued residency, covering letter to summarise my situation), and it took only 3 weeks to be processed and approved.
For complex applications - I'd suggest at least a consultation with a lawyer. In these cases, having a solicitor can greatly increase the chances of getting PR. On the other hand - if you know what you are doing, research the requirements and are potentially willing to risk losing £65 - you could try doing it yourself even in the case of a complex application. But if you get refused, I'd definitely suggest a consultation with a lawyer before a 2nd application. Complex applications can take anything from a couple of months to 6+ months to be processed.
I am not an immigration lawyer. My comments are opinions, not legal advice.