• BA (Hons) in English Literature, University of Cambridge (Double First Class) 
• MA in European Culture and Thought, University College London (Distinction)
• Graduate Diploma in Law, University of Law (Commendation)
• LL.M. in Public International Law, with specialism in International Refugee and Migration Law, Leiden University, The Netherlands (Cum Laude)
• Bar Vocational Studies, City, University of London (Very Competent)

• International Criminal Court Moot Court Competition, The Hague, 2019 (Winner)
• European Court of Human Rights Moot Court Competition, Strasbourg, 2021 (Third Place)
• Dame Frances Mathews Scholarship in English, Peterhouse, University of Cambridge
• College Prize (Part II examinations), Peterhouse, University of Cambridge
• Bar Vocational Studies Scholarship, City Law School
• Lord Mansfield Scholarship, Lincoln’s Inn

Olivia works with clients on a wide range of immigration matters including family migration, asylum and human rights claims, and migration for business, work and study. This includes preparing applications for entry clearance to the UK and leave to remain in the UK, as well as assisting clients with obtaining indefinite leave to remain in the UK and naturalising as British citizens. 

Olivia assists clients with applications and appeals under Appendix FM to the Immigration Rules, including spouse, fiancé(e), and adult dependent relative visas. Olivia also prepares appeals against the refusal of human rights and asylum claims, as well as against decisions to deprive citizenship or revoke ILR. Olivia represents clients in the First-tier Tribunal and Upper Tribunal.

Olivia is also experienced in assisting clients with applications under the points-based system and under the business migration routes, including Entrepreneur extension and Skilled Worker applications, as well as preparing endorsement applications for artists, performers and creative practitioners under the Global Talent visa route.  

Before joining Richmond Chambers, Olivia initially worked at the AIRE Centre, a European human rights NGO. She conducted research into international and European asylum law and its application in the Western Balkans, in conjunction with lawyers from the Belgrade Centre for Human Rights and the United Nations International Organization for Migration. Olivia also delivered lectures on the Refugee Studies MSc course at London South Bank University. 

Olivia subsequently worked at the European Council on Refugees and Exiles (ECRE) in Brussels, where she provided assistance to immigration and refugee lawyers across 23 European countries. She also conducted legal research for ECRE on the withdrawal of reception conditions for asylum seekers in Europe under the EU Reception Conditions Directive.

While studying Public International Law in the Netherlands, Olivia worked with the Migration Law Clinic of the Amsterdam Centre for Migration and Refugee Law. She assisted human rights and immigration lawyers by conducting legal research, and drafted a third-party intervention in an asylum-related case before the European Court of Human Rights. 

In the Netherlands, Olivia was also involved with Amnesty International’s student network, and chaired a panel event in partnership with Sea Watch and Jugend Rettet concerning the criminalisation of NGO migrant rescue missions in the Mediterranean.

“My spouse and I had the pleasure of working with Olivia Waddell at Richmond Chambers for our spouse visa application. Olivia demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a warm, attentive approach throughout the process.

Olivia’s organisational skills were outstanding. She helped us stay informed about our progress and remaining tasks, making the whole process less stressful.

Despite facing several challenges, such as tight deadlines, extensive financial evidence, and navigating the Priority Service, Olivia guided us through each step with patience and attention to detail. When the Priority Service wasn’t available online, she went the extra mile to seek information from her colleagues, and we were able to book it directly at the application centre.

Olivia’s support was invaluable when we needed to obtain unaudited accounts within a tight time frame. Her clear guidance and prompt communication with our accountant ensured the timely submission of the required documents. Moreover, she helped us understand the necessity of a last-minute tuberculosis test, ensuring we complied with all health regulations.

We are incredibly grateful to Olivia for her assistance in achieving a successful outcome. Her diligence, genuine care for her clients, and warm approach made the entire process much more manageable. We highly recommend Olivia Waddell at Richmond Chambers for immigration services. Thank you, Olivia, for your exceptional support and expertise throughout our journey.”

Jaymee Coonjobeeharry – application for a UK Spouse Visa approved

“I highly recommend Olivia and the whole Richmond Chambers team for anyone seeking immigration services. Olivia is an incredibly knowledgeable and skilled attorney who helped my partner and I successfully navigate the complex UK immigration

From our first meeting, we were impressed by Olivia’s professionalism and her dedication to achieving a positive outcome for the both of us. Olivia was always available to answer our questions despite the timezone difference and she provided clear, concise explanations of the legal processes involved in our case.

Olivia also demonstrated a deep understanding of the immigration system and was able to provide invaluable advice and guidance throughout the entire process. Olivia was patient and supportive throughout our application.

I cannot recommend Olivia from Richmond Chambers enough – She truly went above and beyond to help us achieve our immigration goals.”

Matt Featherstone – application for a UK Ancestry Visa and Dependent Partner Visa approved

“From our initial video meeting with Olivia, we were impressed with her attention to detail and professionalism. To start with, Olivia provided a checklist which was very detailed but necessary. She was always available for any queries that we may have had throughout the process.

We are very grateful to Richmond Chambers through Olivia as our settlement visas were approved on the first attempt. Couldn’t have done any of these without their help. It’s definitely worth budgeting for the services offered by Richmond Chambers.

Olivia and her team provided these services to the highest level and we are happy to recommend you to family and friends that might be in need of your services.”

Margaret Rwaro – applications for entry clearance as as Spouse and Child granted