Biography
Hugo Bittencourt is an Associate Immigration Solicitor at Irwin Mitchell LLP, specialising in UK immigration law with a focus on corporate immigration and global mobility. He advises both businesses and private individuals on a broad range of immigration matters, including sponsor licence applications, compliance obligations, business visitor routes, and strategic planning for international workforce mobility.
Hugo has extensive experience guiding employers through the complexities of the UK's Points-Based Immigration System, offering practical solutions that align with each client’s operational goals. He also works closely with international chambers of commerce and professional networks, contributing to thought leadership in the immigration space - particularly in relation to UK–EU cross-border movement following Brexit.
Hugo’s diverse legal background and cross-jurisdictional qualifications enable him to offer a unique perspective on each case, ensuring that clients - whether businesses or individuals - receive effective, solution-oriented legal support. He is dedicated to assisting people and organisations in moving across borders seamlessly and achieving their immigration objectives.
Key Highlights
Successfully assisted an individual who had submitted the incorrect application for Naturalisation as a British citizen instead of Indefinite Leave to Remain. Following the refusal, the client became an overstayer and was asked to leave the UK. Hugo intervened, secured leave to remain on a discretionary basis, and placed the client on a 10-year route to settlement.
Advised a corporate client that had incorrectly assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship under the wrong Tier and Category, with additional errors regarding the Salary Level Requirement—issues that would ordinarily lead to a visa refusal. Hugo liaised directly with the Home Office, and the Skilled Worker visa was ultimately granted.
What do you like about working at Irwin Mitchell?
What I value most about working at Irwin Mitchell is the strong emphasis on work-life balance and the supportive culture within the team. The firm genuinely recognises the importance of wellbeing and encourages flexible working, which allows me to maintain a healthy balance between professional responsibilities and personal life - something that's essential in a demanding area like immigration law.
Equally important is the team I work with. I'm fortunate to be surrounded by colleagues who are not only highly skilled and knowledgeable, but also collaborative, approachable, and genuinely enjoyable to work with. There’s a real sense of mutual respect and shared purpose, which makes even the most complex cases feel manageable. It's a positive, people-first environment that enables us to do our best work - for each other and for our clients.
What is the most rewarding aspect of your role?
The most rewarding aspect of my role as an immigration solicitor is helping people and businesses navigate complex legal systems to achieve life-changing outcomes. Immigration law is deeply personal; it affects people’s ability to live with their families, pursue careers, contribute to society, or build their lives in a new country. Being able to guide clients through that journey, especially during stressful or uncertain times, is incredibly fulfilling.
Whether it’s securing a visa for a skilled worker, helping a family reunite, or resolving a situation where someone’s right to remain in the UK is at risk, each success represents a real, tangible impact on someone’s life. I also find it rewarding to assist corporate clients in achieving their global mobility goals while staying compliant with ever-changing rules. Ultimately, it’s the human stories behind each case that make this work so meaningful.
What inspired you to get into law?
Growing up in Brazil, I was acutely aware of the deep social and economic inequalities that shaped everyday life. In Rio de Janeiro, where I was raised, the stark contrast between wealth and poverty often fuelled environments where crime and human rights violations were widespread. Witnessing these injustices from an early age inspired me to pursue a career in law, with a focus on promoting social justice and protecting fundamental rights.
This commitment led me to specialise in human rights, and I was awarded a scholarship to complete a master’s degree in Human Rights and International Cooperation in Italy and the UK. My studies deepened my understanding of systemic injustice and the global fight for equality and accountability. I remain particularly moved by the case of Marielle Franco, a human rights activist and congresswoman from my hometown, who was assassinated for exposing corruption and police brutality. Her legacy continues to drive my dedication to using the law as a force for positive change.
What do you do away from the office?
Outside of work, I’m a passionate musical theatre enthusiast. I love going to shows whenever I get the chance and enjoy exploring how performance and storytelling come together on stage. I also spend time on creative hobbies like video and music editing, which allow me to unwind and express myself in a different way. When I’m looking to relax and have a bit of fun, you’ll often find me online gaming on a League of Legends field.
Testimonials
Outstanding legal support for skilled worker visa
It was an absolute pleasure working with Irwin Mitchell. I had the privilege of being assisted by Hugo Bittencourt De Oliveira, who handled everything with the highest level of professionalism and expertise. Hugo went above and beyond to support me with my skilled worker visa application, offering invaluable guidance every step of the way. His responsiveness and willingness to address all of my questions and concerns were truly exceptional. I couldn’t have asked for a more dedicated and helpful advisor throughout the entire process. - Y.S.
What a beautiful experience
What a beautiful experience! The stress and uncertainty that comes with a lifer-changing event such as ILR, can be unbearable and affects you mentally. Fortunately, Hugo Bittencourt De Oliveira was there all the way to schedule calls to make sure we understand the process; give clear instructions and lists for required documents; and working all times of day and night to make sure we are comfortable and looked after. I cannot express how happy we are with the speedy result and professionalism that we received from the Hugo and the team and Irwin Mitchell. If anyone ever had any doubt, about who the right immigration team is in the UK, get in touch with Irwin Mitchel! Make sure to ask for Hugo! Thank you for helping us establish our new life! - M.B.
Family relocation Switzerland-UK
Hugo supported me in the relocation of the entire family from Switzerland to the UK. We required a visa with an extremely short lead time. Hugo not only managed this but also established trust and provided comfort, and made the relocation a lot more smooth. Quite frankly I do not think that we would have managed if Hugo had not found a solution to turn around the process so quickly. He clearly went above and beyond. Thank you! F.S.
Hugo Bittencourt De Oliveira made our experience a five star. His professionalism, responsiveness, knowledge, approach, wise counsel and engaging personality made a difficult and taxing experience pleasant and smooth. Hugo ensured that every “T” was crossed and every “I” dotted in completing my residency application. No piece of my residency application process was left to chance. - C.L.
