Since the end of July and beginning of August 2020, the UK’s Border Force has picked up an extraordinary number of migrant boats attempting to cross the English Channel illegally. A high-rise of 202 migrants were found on 20 vessels on Thursday 30th July 2020 and more than 4000 people have successfully, as well as
If individuals have already been granted leave but their financial circumstances change, they may be eligible to apply for access to public funding from the UK government. This can be done by completing an online application requesting for a change of conditions to their leave. Individuals are advised to complete a change of conditions application
On 5th August 2020, UK Visas, and Immigration (UKVI) updated its policy guidance for Tier 4 sponsors who are sponsoring students engaging in distance learning and its information on visa extensions and the resumption of specified visa services. Tier 4 sponsors It is still permitted by UKVI for sponsors to continue sponsoring students who are
On Monday 10th August 2020, The Independent Chief Inspector of Borders and Immigration, David Bolt, announced a “call for evidence” on ePassport gates. This is the launch of a brand-new inspection into the operations and utilisation of ePassport Gates by the Home Office. Mr Bolt is now inviting individuals with any knowledge and experience of
Recently, a Judicial Review legal challenge has been launched by the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants (JCWI) and digital rights group Foxglove, against the Home Office for the utilising a Streaming Tool when processing visa applications. It has been alleged that the Streaming Tool is racist, and it subjects individual applications to a
Between 29th July and 3rd August 2020, the Home Office has made vital updates to the current set of information on visa expirations and the status of Visa Application Centres (VACs). As travel restrictions associated with COVID-19 are beginning to lift on a global scale, the operation of VACs has resumed albeit where local conditions
As a result of a substantial augmentation in the level and number of COVID-19 cases in Spain over the past week, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office took the executive decision to remove Spain from the travel corridor exemption list on 25th July 2020. This list comprises of all the countries where people are not required
As the UK paves the way for the implementation of a points-based immigration system on 1st January 2021, there has been much campaigning from the First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, for Scotland to have its own varied visa system. Considering that nations such as Australia and Canada have their own regional visa systems, the
Starting from 27th July 2020, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has scheduled for more Visa Application Centres (VACs) to reopen and resume services. This announcement is widely appreciated as the UK border begins to reopen with more travellers now having the ability to book their respective appointments to travel in and outside of the UK.
On 22nd July 2020, the UK government published detailed contents on the new immigration route for British National (Overseas) (BN(O)) passport holders and their dependants in Hong Kong. Its emergence is evinced from the UK’s retaliation to the newly enacted national security laws in Hong Kong by the central government of Beijing. These national security
On 14th July 2020, the Home Office launched a brand-new visa route, as part of the latest immigration bill, for overseas healthcare professionals to enter the UK. From August 2020, such professionals will be eligible to apply for this visa. “We are indebted to overseas health and care professionals for their tremendous contributions, not just
The Coronavirus Job Retention Bonus: On Wednesday 8th July 2020, Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak announced the introduction of a Jobs Retention Bonus. This is an incentive for employers to rehire their furloughed staff in exchange for a monetary payment paid by the UK government to employers. “Our message to business is clear: if
As we continue to combat the pandemic, confidences are evidently returning. Business and commerce are re-stimulating plans, and actively re-awakening budgets from an enforced Lockdown slumber. Global mobility is beginning to stir once again. For those that are embracing exciting new opportunity, and engaging in the belief we will recover, there is now a light
“Britain is open for business and ready to welcome the best and brightest global talent.” – Priti Patel, Home Secretary. On Monday 13th July 2020, Priti Patel set out the finalised details of the new points-based immigration system which is scheduled to take effect from 1st January 2020. Considering the gradual ending to COVID-19 and
The UK Visas & Immigration have confirmed that as of Monday 13th July 2020, further VFS Visa Application Centres (VAC’s) will re-open and resume its services. It has been eagerly anticipated by both businesses and individuals; ultimately it is a relief for UK visa applicants as biometrics appointments will recommence, and applicants can now progress
