2 What is the OISC registration scheme?
There are three different exam levels in the OISC registration scheme. It starts at Level 1, which you must pass before progressing to Level 2. Completing each level means that immigration advisers can take on work that is increasing in complexity:
- Level 1: basic immigration advice.
- Level 2: more complex casework.
- Level 3: appeals to a First-tier Tribunal against a visa, asylum or immigration decision.
More detailed information on these levels [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] can be found on the OISC area of GOV.UK.
Activity 2: The work of an immigration adviser
a.
Appeals to the County Court
b.
Applications for entry clearance, or leave to enter or remain in the UK
c.
Bail applications and appeals against deportation
d.
Bringing cases for a breach of human rights
e.
Bringing cases for false imprisonment
f.
Bringing cases for unlawful detention
g.
Citizenship
h.
Claims for asylum
i.
Debt advice
j.
Deportation or removal
k.
Drafting housing applications
l.
Immigration employment documents
m.
Nationality
n.
Residence
o.
School entrance advice
The correct answers are b, c, g, h, j, l, m and n.
Discussion
Taking appeals to the County Court, drafting housing applications, and giving advice on debt or school entrance are undertaken by other professionals; for example solicitors, specialist debt advisers (the Money and Pensions Service), housing associations and other organisations, such as law centres or Citizens Advice.
There may be occasions where bringing cases for false imprisonment, unlawful detention or other human rights breaches may be relevant to the work of an immigration adviser. Such cases require specialist advice, and this work is beyond the remit of a Level 1 immigration adviser. Immigration advisers are, however, expected to be able to identify possible human rights breaches so that specialist advice can be sought and action can be taken.