On January 16, 2025, the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) rebranded itself as the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA).
Our two cents
There isn’t much to say about it, other than there was no consultation with stakeholders making it a real pain for the thousands of registered firms who will now have to spend time, money and effort in amendments to their literature, websites, etc.
Looking on the Internet Archives website the rebrand was planned since at least 27 August 2024 but any mention of a rebrand was not forthcoming to affected firms until just before Christmas.
It’s worth noting that all immigration advisors with existing OISC registrations, including Visa Positive, will transition into IAA-regulated advisors. This rebranding doesn’t impact our clients or alter our ability to offer regulated immigration advice to individuals and businesses.
Who is the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) and what is their role?
The IAA is an executive non-departmental public body, sponsored by the Home Office.
A non-departmental public body is an organisation that operates at arm’s length from government departments. They are funded by the government but are not directly controlled by ministers in their day-to-day operations.
According it’s website “the IAA protects seekers of immigration advice through regulation, enforcement and promoting best practice”. The IAA has outlined three core objectives:
- Enhanced regulation: Enforcing strict standards for registered immigration advisers.
- Combating illegal practices: Targeting unregulated and unethical advisers to protect advice seekers.
- Promoting best practices: Collaborating with advisers to develop the sector and improve service delivery.
To learn more about the Immigration Advice Authority and its role as a regulator, please visit its new website here.
Why use a regulated immigration advisor?
When seeking assistance with any type of UK visa and immigration application, it is essential to choose an advisor who is properly regulated. This ensures that you are safeguarded and provided with ensuring a professional, ethical, and legally compliant adviser.
Only individuals or organisations authorised and regulated are legally allowed to offer immigration advice. These advisors are required to adhere to strict codes of conduct and professional standards set by regulatory authorities like the Immigration Advisers Authority (IAA). This guarantees that clients receive quality advice and support throughout the process.
Visa Positive was established in 2011 and is authorised and regulated by the IAA under registration number F2011000389 to provide immigration advice and services. We are registered at the level 3 – the highest level. If you require immigration advice please contact us here.