Jessica Smart

Partner - Head of Immigration, London

London

Jessica Smart is a Partner and Head of Immigration at Stephenson Harwood, providing specialist UK immigration and nationality advice.

D +44 20 7809 2612 M +44 7785 604946

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Awards & Recognition

"From the outset, Jessica demonstrated a strong understanding both of the law and of the unique aspects of my application. She delivers a high level of client service, is efficient in her approach and brings a wealth of experience to her work. Together, these elements have consistently given me confidence and reassurance during what has been a very challenging process."

Chambers HNW 2026

"Jessica is excellent at providing clear advice on complex immigration matters in a pragmatic and concise manner. She is attuned to clients' bespoke needs and does not shy away from the significant changes in immigration guidance or mandates."

Chambers HNW 2026

"Jessica Smart is highly attentive, detail-oriented and knowledgeable."

Chambers HNW 2026

Biography

Language - English
Jurisdiction - England & Wales

Jessica Smart is a Partner and Head of Immigration at Stephenson Harwood. She is a leading specialist in UK immigration and nationality and advises a range of clients, including high-net-worth individuals and corporate entities.

For private clients and families, Jessica advises on all UK immigration routes. For her clients in the UK, Jessica supports them with obtaining Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) (also known as Permanent Residence or Settlement), British citizenship and passport.

For corporate clients, Jessica supports them through the sponsor licence process and subsequent sponsorship of skilled workers. She advises UK businesses on compliance with sponsor licence duties and responsibilities and the law in relation to the prevention of illegal working.

Jessica has extensive experience advising offshore energy clients on immigration strategy and nuanced areas of law involving seafarers and crew.

Jessica is ranked by the Chambers and Partners HNW guide. She has also been recognised by the Legal 500 for her immigration expertise and is named in ALM's 2026 Private Client Global Elite. She was the winner of the 'Future Icon' award at the Citywealth 2025 Magic Circle Awards.

Jessica was the Immigration Council Member for England and Wales at The Law Society for 4 years and is a member of The Law Society's Immigration Law Committee. She is also a member of the Home Office Business Advisory Group, and the Immigration Law Practitioners' Association (ILPA).

Experience

Complex Investor visa success

Assisted a high-net-worth individual in resolving a complex investor visa extension application after their investment provider collapsed, and secured an approval despite significant regulatory challenges and delays.
Business immigration for entrepreneurs

Supported an international entrepreneur in obtaining a sponsor licence for their new UK business, successfully addressing Home Office concerns during a pre-licence compliance audit.
Family reunification across jurisdictions

Assisted a client with a complicated cross-border adoption and immigration process, overcoming legal and procedural obstacles to reunite the family in the UK.

Dual nationality documentation issues

Resolved a challenging case involving conflicting passport and nationality documentation, enabling the client to obtain a British passport without altering their foreign identity documents.
Offshore energy project

Secured over 200 visas for a major offshore energy client within two months, while managing complex sponsorship and Home Office compliance requirements.