Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner
(OISC)
The Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner is the statutory body that regulates immigration advisers who are not solicitors or barristers. Anyone charging for immigration advice in the UK must be registered with the OISC or be a regulated legal professional. The OISC investigates complaints about immigration advisers, can impose penalties, and publishes a public register of authorised advisers.
The OISC was established under the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Advisers are registered at one of three competence levels: Level 1 (straightforward applications such as EEA nationals, leave to remain extensions), Level 2 (appeals, complex applications), and Level 3 (judicial reviews and complex appeals). It is a criminal offence to provide immigration advice or services for reward without OISC registration or qualification as a solicitor, barrister, or other exempt person. Complaints about registered advisers or about unregulated individuals providing immigration advice can be made to the OISC directly. The OISC can prosecute, issue civil penalties, and apply to court to close down businesses. A searchable register of authorised advisers is available on the OISC website — always verify an adviser's registration before paying for advice.