SO Legal expands into business immigration with new department

The move into immigration builds on our established strengths advising businesses across employment, corporate, litigation, and other key areas of law. Many of our business clients already trust us with workplace and commercial issues, and immigration advice is a natural extension of our expertise.

With employers in sectors such as healthcare, education, technology, hospitality, and professional services facing stricter sponsorship rules, more complex visa processes, and increased compliance duties, our new department enables us to deliver integrated support at every stage of the employment relationship.

Helping employers secure global talent

Our immigration department will focus primarily on business immigration, advising companies on sponsorship licences, skilled worker visas, global business mobility routes, and Home Office compliance. With Sanae’s expertise, we help employers recruit and retain international talent while minimising compliance risks.

We also advise on personal immigration matters, including spouse visas, settlement, citizenship, and appeals, ensuring individuals and families receive clear guidance through complex rules.

Introducing Sanae Sahebjalal

Sanae is a specialist immigration solicitor with extensive experience across business and personal immigration. She is primarily based in our London office at Lincoln’s Inn Fields but supports employers nationwide. She has acted in complex matters covering family migration, human rights, and nationality law, and has successfully represented clients before the Home Office and First-tier Tribunal.

Before joining SO Legal, Sanae practised at leading Legal 500 and international firms, advising multinational corporations, SMEs, high-net-worth individuals, and families. She is recognised for simplifying complex rules and providing clear, practical advice.

Hamed Ovaisi, chairman, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Sanae to the firm. Expanding into immigration is a natural step for us, allowing us to support our business clients more fully. The immigration system is constantly evolving, and we recognise that employers face significant challenges in keeping pace with sponsorship and visa requirements. With Sanae leading this department, our clients can be confident their compliance is in safe hands, giving them the freedom to focus on growth and recruitment.”

Simon Moss, head of practice management, added:

“Immigration is now a key issue for employers across every sector. From healthcare and tech to finance, we see businesses under pressure to keep up with complex regulations and compliance duties. Sanae’s expertise strengthens the practical advice we provide to clients, ensuring businesses get clear solutions that work in practice and the support they need to plan for the future.”

Supporting businesses and individuals nationwide

With offices in London, Brighton, East Sussex, and Cumbria, we are well placed to support both organisations and individuals nationwide. The launch of our immigration department reinforces our commitment to delivering specialist advice that meets the evolving needs of our clients.

Find out more about our business immigration services and personal immigration services.