If you’ve ever compared UK visa consultancies online, you’ve probably seen the phrase “OISC-registered” — or now “IAA-registered.”
It sounds official, impressive, and… a little intimidating, doesn’t it?
Many agencies use that label as a fear lever — implying that only UK-based companies can be trusted with immigration advice.
But here’s the truth: IAA registration only applies to firms operating inside the UK.
For South Africans, that doesn’t make those companies safer — it makes them further away, harder to reach, and often more expensive.
From OISC to IAA: same regulator, new name
In January 2025, the UK’s Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) rebranded as the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA).
It still governs UK-based immigration advisers, but it has no jurisdiction over South African practices like ours — even though we handle UK immigration law daily.
That’s not negligence on our part; it’s jurisdictional.
We’ve actually tried to bring South Africa under their oversight.
But as we explained here, the UK authorities confirmed our client volumes are too low to justify that model.
So, when a competitor brags about being “IAA-registered,” it simply means they’re operating in the UK, not that they’re more compliant or qualified.
Who governs Move Up?
We don’t fall through the cracks.
Move Up is governed under South African law and backed by litigation attorney Gwen Vermeulen, who leads our legal oversight and compliance.
That means we’re locally accountable — and our clients enjoy the same legal protections they would expect from any South African law practice.
Unlike sales-driven “visa agents,” our focus isn’t on commissions or quotas.
It’s on credibility, representation, and transparency.
What this means for South Africans abroad and at home
If you’re living in South Africa, you deserve a team that:
✅ Understands South African documentation, systems, and timelines
✅ Operates in your currency and time zone
✅ Is governed by your legal framework
✅ Has actual legal professionals — not just consultants
At Move Up, we bridge both worlds: South African governance with British immigration expertise.
That’s what “Trust Local. Move Up.” really means.
Closing thought
When someone says, “We’re IAA-registered,” ask them:
“Does that mean you’re just… in the UK?”
Because trust doesn’t come from a postcode.
It comes from accountability, honesty, and proximity.
And that’s exactly what Move Up stands for.
