Category: Uk visa and immigration

eVisa rollout begins with immigration documents replaced by 2025 The UK government has initiated the rollout of eVisas, a digital proof of immigration status, which will replace physical immigration documents like Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) by 2025. Starting from April 17, 2024, the Home Office has begun sending emails to all those with physical immigration documents, inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa. The process will open to anyone in the UK who holds physical immigration documents in summer 2024. eVisas are central to making the UK border safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss, and abuse of physical documents, thereby strengthening border security. This move to eVisas is in line with other countries that have replaced or are planning to replace their physical immigration documents with digital forms of immigration status. Creating a UKVI account to access an eVisa is free, straightforward, and will not change, impact, or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK. eVisas are secure and cannot be lost, stolen, or tampered with, unlike physical documents. They can be accessed anywhere and in real-time, putting customers in control of their own data and allowing them to swiftly update the Home Office with new contact or passport details. People checking immigration status will be able to conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK. Selected public bodies are already able to access immigration status to determine eligibility for public services automatically through system-to-system checks. Physical immigration documents will be gradually phased out by 2025, as the UK transitions to a fully digital border and immigration system for new and existing customers. This will deliver enhanced security and cost savings for the UK public and greater convenience for customers and status checkers. Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any passport on which they intend to travel using the online Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details service on GOV.UK, if this is not already linked to their account, to avoid delays when traveling. The move to eVisas is a significant step towards modernising the UK’s border and immigration system, providing greater convenience and flexibility to residents and public bodies. .At Kash Legal Services, we recognize the transformative potential of this evolution and remain committed to supporting clients in navigating the complexities of immigration law amidst this digital transition.

Requirements for a Hong Kong BN(O) Status Holder Visa

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To get a Hong Kong BN(O) Status Holder Visa, you need to show that:

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• You are at least 18 years old

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• You are a British National (Overseas) under the Hong Kong (British Nationality) Order 1986

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• You live in Hong Kong or the UK

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• You can support yourself in the UK for at least six months

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• Your application meets all the rules

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• You have a valid TB certificate if needed

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BN(O) Status Holder Requirement

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To qualify for a Hong Kong BN(O) Status Holder Visa, you must be a British National (Overseas) under the Hong Kong (British Nationality) Ordinance Order 1986.

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If you were a British Dependent Territories citizen connected to Hong Kong, you had to apply to be a British National (Overseas) before 1997. People born after June 30, 1997, can't be British Nationals (Overseas). Also, BN(O)s can't pass this nationality to their kids.

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If you lost your BN(O) status, it might be hard to get it back. You can use an expired BN(O) passport to apply for a Hong Kong BN(O) Status Holder Visa. If you don't have a BN(O) passport, you can use a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region passport instead. It is important to note that the Hong Kong BN(O) Status Holder Visa has an Ordinary Residency Requirement. This means that in order to be eligible for the visa, you must meet certain residency criteria. Whether you apply from inside or outside the UK, you must be living in Hong Kong to qualify for the visa. Additionally, if you choose to apply from inside the UK, you must also be residing in the UK, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man to meet the residency requirement.

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Hong Kong BN(O) Status Holder Visa Ordinary Residency Requirement

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You can apply for a Hong Kong BN(O) Status Holder Visa from inside or outside the UK. If you apply from outside the UK, you should live in Hong Kong. If you apply from inside the UK, you should live in Hong Kong, the UK, Jersey, Guernsey, or the Isle of Man.

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The Home Office will look at where you usually live to decide if you qualify for the visa. We can help you figure out what proof you need to show this. When applying for the Hong Kong BN(O) Status Holder Visa, it is important to note that the Home Office will consider where you usually live to determine your eligibility. If you have been residing in the UK for a year already, you may not need to demonstrate financial support for six months. However, if you are required to show proof of financial stability, there are various methods to meet this requirement, such as demonstrating sufficient funds or obtaining assurances of support from a third party. 

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What is a Business Visit Visa?

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UK Business Visit Visa is for people who want to come to the UK for a short-term unpaid business activity. It is part of the Standard Visitor route, which allows people to visit the UK for up to 6 months. When applying for a Business Visit Visa, it is important to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements outlined by the UK government. This includes having a valid reason for your visit, sufficient funds to cover your expenses, and a clear intention to leave the country after your visit. 

Additionally, it is crucial to demonstrate that your business activities in the UK are directly related to your job outside the country and will not exceed the 6-month limit allowed under the visa. By carefully preparing your application and meeting all the necessary criteria, you can increase your chances of obtaining a Business Visit Visa for your short-term business activities in the UK.  

When applying for a UK Business Visit Visa, it is important to ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements outlined by the UK government. This includes having a valid reason for your visit, sufficient funds to cover your expenses, and a clear intention to leave the country after your visit. Additionally, it is crucial to demonstrate that your business activities in the UK are directly related to your job outside the country and will not exceed the 6-month limit allowed under the visa.

 By carefully preparing your application and meeting all the necessary criteria, you can increase your chances of obtaining a Business Visit Visa for your short-term business activities in the UK. 

Requirements for a Business Visit Visa

• • In order to get a Business Visit Visa, you need to show that:

• • You are from a country that requires a visa to enter the UK

• • You have a valid reason for visiting the UK

• • You won’t do anything illegal while in the UK

• • You have enough money to cover your expenses during your visit

• • You will leave the UK when your visit is over

• • You won’t try to live in the UK permanently

• • Your application meets all the requirements

• • You have an Electronic Travel Authorisation, if needed

Visa National Requirement

If you are from a country that requires a visa to enter the UK, you must apply for a Visit Visa before traveling. Some exceptions allow certain visa nationals to enter as a Visitor upon arrival in the UK. When applying for a Business Visit Visa, it is important to provide detailed documentation supporting your intended business activities in the UK. 

This can include letters of invitation, meeting schedules, and any contracts or agreements related to your visit. Additionally, demonstrating a clear understanding of the purpose and duration of your trip can strengthen your application and increase your chances of approval. 

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Business Visit Visa Permitted Activities

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To qualify for a Business Visit Visa, you must show that your business activities are related to your job outside the UK and will last less than 6 months. Some permitted activities include:

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  • Attending meetings, conferences, and seminars

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• • Negotiating deals and contracts

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• • Visiting trade fairs for promotional work

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• • Gathering information for your job overseas

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Intra-corporate Activities

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If you work for a company with UK employees, you can apply for a Business Visit Visa to advise, consult, troubleshoot, or provide training. These activities should be linked to a specific project and last a short time. 

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Additionally, Business Visit Visa holders are allowed to participate in training sessions, workshops, and other professional development activities that are directly related to their job responsibilities outside the UK. 

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This can include gaining new skills, knowledge, or certifications that will benefit their role within the company. It is important to note that any activities undertaken during the visit must align with the purpose stated in the visa application and should not exceed the permitted duration of stay. 

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Manufacture and Supply of Goods to the UK

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If you work for an overseas company, you can come to the UK to install, repair, or service machinery or equipment for a UK company. The visit should be less than one month and related to your job overseas. For all individuals coming to the UK for work-related activities, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the purpose of their visit and ensure that it aligns with the regulations set forth by the UK government. 

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This will help prevent any potential issues or complications during their time in the country and ensure a smooth and successful visit. 

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Clients of UK Export Companies

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If you are a client of a UK export company, you may be sent to the UK to oversee goods or services provided under contract. The two companies should not be part of the same group, and there should be a contract in place.

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It is important for both parties to clearly outline the terms and conditions of the contract to ensure that expectations are met and disputes are minimized. As the client overseeing the goods or services provided, it is crucial to communicate effectively with the UK export company to address any issues or concerns that may arise during the project. By maintaining open lines of communication and adhering to the terms of the contract, both parties can work together successfully to achieve the desired outcome.

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Exploring Different Roles in the UK for Overseas Workers

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1.Specific Activities for Overseas Workers

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 If you work outside the UK, you might have the chance to visit the UK for some cool activities related to your job. Check out these opportunities:

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2.Translator/Interpreter

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If you’re a translator or interpreter, you can work in the UK for a company based overseas.

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3.Personal Assistant/Bodyguard

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As a personal assistant or bodyguard, you can help a business person from another country during their activities in the UK. Just make sure you’re not doing personal care or domestic work for them.

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4.Tour Group Courier

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If you work for a company outside the UK as a tour group courier, you can travel with a tour group organized by your company to and from the UK.

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5.Journalist/Correspondent/Producer/Cameraman

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Journalists and media professionals can visit the UK to gather information for publications, programs, or films from overseas.

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6.Archaeologist

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Archaeologists can come to the UK for a one-time archaeological excavation.

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7.Professor

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Professors from international academic institutions can accompany students to the UK for study abroad programs and provide some teaching, as long as it’s not a permanent role.

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8.Market Researcher/Analyst

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Market researchers and analysts can conduct research for companies based outside the UK.

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9.International Driver

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Drivers on international routes between the UK and another country can deliver goods or passengers to the UK and perform cabotage operations, as long as they meet certain criteria.

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Leaving the UK Requirement

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When applying for a Business Visit Visa, you need to show that you’ll leave the UK after your visit and won’t stay for long periods or make the UK your main home. During the application process, you may also be required to provide evidence of your intended activities in the UK, such as a letter of invitation from a business partner or conference organizer.

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 Additionally, the Home Office may conduct interviews or request additional documentation to further assess your intentions for visiting the country. It is important to be prepared to demonstrate the purpose of your visit and your plans for returning to your home country after your stay.  During the application process, you may also be required to provide evidence of your intended activities in the UK, such as a letter of invitation from a business partner or conference organizer. 

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Additionally, the Home Office may conduct interviews or request additional documentation to further assess your intentions for visiting the country. It is important to be prepared to demonstrate the purpose of your visit and your plans for returning to your home country after your stay. 

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Factors Considered

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The Home Office will look at your immigration history, financial situation, and ties to your home country to determine if you’re a genuine visitor.

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Financial Requirement

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You must have enough money to cover your visit costs without working or using public funds. Your funds should be in an approved financial institution. During the application process, you may also be required to provide evidence of your intended activities in the UK, such as a letter of invitation from a business partner or conference organizer.

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 Additionally, the Home Office may conduct interviews or request additional documentation to further assess your intentions for visiting the country. It is important to be prepared to demonstrate the purpose of your visit and your plans for returning to your home country after your stay. 

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English Language Requirement

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Business Visit Visa applicants don’t need to prove English language proficiency.

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Visa Validity Period

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You can apply for a Visit Visa valid for 6 months, 2 years, 5 years, or 10 years. Each visit can’t exceed 6 months. When applying for a Visit Visa, it is important to note that the English language requirement is not mandatory for Business Visit Visa applicants. However, it is always beneficial to have a basic understanding of English to navigate through daily interactions during your visit. 

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Additionally, it is important to adhere to the Visa Validity Period restrictions, ensuring that each visit does not exceed 6 months to avoid any potential visa violations. 

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Right to Work

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Business Visitors can’t work in the UK or receive payment from UK sources, except for certain permitted activities. When applying for a Visit Visa, it is important to note that the right to work in the UK is restricted for Business Visitors. While certain permitted activities are allowed, working or receiving payment from UK sources is not permitted. It is crucial to adhere to these regulations to avoid any legal complications during your stay in the UK. 

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Application Fees

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The application fee for a short stay Business Visit Visa is £115. For longer visas, the fee is higher.

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How We Can Help

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At Kash Legal service Our immigration Lawyer can assist you with applying for a Business Visit Visa and provide legal representation if needed. We’re here to help you navigate the process and make your visit to the UK a success!

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A Permit for Airport Transit or Short Stays in Member States’ Territory. The Schengen Visa is a permit issued by a Member State for the purpose of airport transit or short stays in the territory of one or more Member States. It allows the holder to present themselves at the external border, but it does not automatically confer the right to enter the Schengen area. The holder must still apply for entry at the border post and may be required to present documentation related to the conditions of stay, such as proof of sufficient means of subsistence, accommodation conditions, and valid travel medical insurance.The Schengen visa is intended for short stays of up to 90 days in each 180-day period and can be granted for various purposes, including tourism, family visit, business, seasonal work, and transit. The applicant must appear in person at the consular post of their area of residency and provide justification regarding the objective and conditions of stay. If necessary, the consular post may schedule an interview with the applicant.

 The necessary documents for the visa application must be produced in their original form, including copies. The payment of the visa fee for the administrative processing of the visa application does not guarantee a visa being granted, nor does it entail a refund in case of refusal. At Kash Legal Services, a UK immigration law firm, we can assist you with your Schengen visa application. Our team of experienced

UK visa – Kash Legal Services | Immigration lawyer UK visa – Kash Legal Services | Immigration lawyer Starting in 2025, the UK will transition from biometric residence permits to eVisas. At Kash Legal Services, we are committed to keeping our clients informed about the latest UK visa – Kash Legal Services | Immigration lawyer updates in the UK's immigration system. We are excited to share that the UK government has announced plans to modernize its immigration processes by introducing electronic visas (eVisas) in 2025. This change will replace physical documents, such as Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs), passport endorsements, and vignette stickers, with a digital system. From January 1, 2025, the UK Home Office will stop issuing these physical documents. Instead, eVisas will serve as an online record of your immigration status and the terms under which you are allowed to enter or stay in the UK. To access your eVisa, you will need to register for a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account. It is essential to note that updating your physical document to an eVisa will not affect your immigration status or the conditions of your permit to stay in the UK. As part of the transition, travelers to the UK will no longer need to carry physical documents, except for a valid passport registered to their UKVI account. However, until the end of 2024, individuals must continue to carry their physical documents when traveling.

New Amendment Proposed to Tackle Crime and Immigration in the UK As a UK immigration lawyer, I am closely monitoring the latest developments in the government's efforts to address the issue of crime and immigration in the UK. Recently, the former immigration minister, Robert Jenrick, proposed an amendment to the Criminal Justice Bill that would require the nationality, visa, and asylum status of every offender convicted in English and Welsh courts to be published annually. The proposed amendment aims to prevent the UK from "importing crime" and strengthen visa and deportation policies. If passed, it would create crime "league tables" to rank migrant nationalities with the highest rates of crime. Jenrick believes that the data on migrant crime could aid in making visa applications more stringent for certain nationalities, particularly those with higher rates of crime. At Kash Legal Services, we understand the importance of thorough background checks and the need for stricter visa policies for certain nationalities. The proposal comes as the number of migrants crossing the Channel to the UK has reached a record high. The former immigration minister argues that the public has the right to know who is coming into the country and what the impact of immigration is, including the societal impact of crime. However, there are concerns about the practicality of implementing the proposal, and the Refugee Council has stated that asylum rules in the UK are already very stringent.

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UK visa News update April 2024- Kash legal | Immigration lawyer in Sheffield . The group has said that serious criminals are not allowed to stay in the country. Jenrick's proposal is part of a broader effort to cut net immigration in the UK. The government is introducing a range of restrictions, including a ban on overseas care workers bringing family dependants to the UK and increasing the salary threshold for skilled workers. As a UK immigration lawyer, I believe that this proposal is a significant 1 move to provide greater transparency and accountability in the immigration system. However, it is essential to ensure that the data collected is accurate and not used to discriminate against certain nationalities. At Kash Legal Services, we are committed to providing our clients with the latest information and guidance on UK immigration policies. We will continue to monitor the progress of this proposal and its impact on UK immigration policies. If you have any questions or concerns about your immigration status, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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1. Health and Care Visa

1: Applies to healthcare professionals like nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals.

2: Salary threshold increases to £23,200 for national pay scale roles and £29,000 for roles not on national pay scales.

3: Immigration Salary List determines thresholds for specific occupations.

4: Exemption from Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) continues.

5: Dependents can accompany visa holders with the right to work.

6: Only CQC-registered providers in England can sponsor care workers or senior care workers.

2. Skilled Worker Visa

1: Applies to roles not eligible for Health and Care Visa but sponsored by NHS trusts, like IT and finance professionals.

2: New applications require meeting a salary threshold of £38,700.

3: Existing visa holders exempt from new salary levels but subject to updated percentiles upon changes or extensions.

4: Immigration Salary List determines thresholds, with an increased IHS of £1,035 per year per applicant.

5: Dependents retain the right to work.

The aim to ensure that the UK continues to attract skilled professionals, especially in critical sectors like healthcare, while also maintaining a balance between immigration and domestic workforce needs.

UK VISA NEW RULES 2024

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UK Visa news , Changes to Skilled Worker Visa- NEW RULES 2024

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UK Visa news, The UK is making changes to its immigration rules, specifically the Skilled Worker Visa category. Starting on April 4, 2024, the minimum salary requirement for this visa will increase from £26,200 to £38,700 annually. However, healthcare workers like doctors and nurses are exempt from this change. There will still be a 30% salary reduction for new entrants to the job market, benefiting those under 26 and post-doctoral researchers. Current Skilled Worker visa holders will not be affected by the new salary threshold for extensions or changes in employment within the visa category.

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Minimum Income Requirement under the partner routes

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The minimum income requirement for partner routes is being updated to reflect the current cost of living. This change aims to ensure that families are self-sufficient and do not need to rely on public funds.

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EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS)

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The EU Settlement Scheme is expanding to include more individuals, such as spouses, civil partners, and durable partners with pre-settled status under the EUSS, along with their dependent children.

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Immigration Salary List and Asylum

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Changes are being made to allow asylum seekers to request permission to work based on the Immigration Salary List (ISL). This change aligns with the Skilled Worker visa changes being implemented at the same time.

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Update of the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code system

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The SOC code system used in the immigration system is being updated from SOC 2010 to SOC 2020. This update will impact the eligibility of occupations for certain visa routes.

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Changes to the Seasonal Worker route

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The National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage are increasing, which will affect the minimum rate of hourly pay for Seasonal Workers.

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Changes to The UK Spouse Visa

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From April 11, 2024, the income requirement for first-time Spouse Visa applicants will rise to £29,000, with anticipated increases in the future. Applicants can still meet the financial requirement through savings. These changes will not affect those already on a Spouse/Family Visa route to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or those holding a fiancé visa prior to the changes.

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Financial Planning for Families

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Spouses and couples should evaluate their finances to ensure they meet the minimum income requirement for the Spouse Visa application. Future applicants need to be aware of the new financial requirements and plan accordingly. The UK immigration rules in 2024 are introducing significant changes across several visa categories. By understanding these changes, applicants can better prepare for the complexities of the UK immigration system.

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At Kash legal services, we offer assistance to navigate these complexities, providing expert guidance to both students and universities alike. By staying informed about the latest regulations and offering tailored advice, we can help ensure compliance with immigration laws while facilitating access to education opportunities in the UK.

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UK Visa, News Update

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UK visa, immigration news update; In a bid to fulfil its pledge of reducing migration and safeguarding the integrity of the UK's immigration system, the government has initiated significant changes, effective immediately. These alterations aim to address concerns regarding the misuse of student visas and the influx of dependants, thereby contributing to a substantial reduction in migration numbers.

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As per recent statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the net migration figure stood at a staggering 672,000 from June 2022 to June 2023. Alarming data revealed a staggering increase of over 930%, with 152,980 visas issued to dependants of students in the year ending September 2023, compared to just 14,839 in the year ending September 2019.

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Under the new regulations, international students embarking on courses this month will face restrictions on bringing family members to the UK, except for specific circumstances such as postgraduate research courses or courses funded by government scholarships. This move aims to prevent the exploitation of student visas as a pathway to work in the UK and is expected to result in approximately 140,000 fewer individuals entering the country. Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the government's commitment to curtailing migration, stating that the measures introduced will help reduce migration by tens of thousands and contribute to the broader strategy of preventing 300,000 individuals from entering the UK. Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, Tom Pursglove MP, echoed these sentiments, affirming the need for decisive action to address unsustainable levels of migration. Furthermore, the government is implementing measures to deter illegal migration, including a significant decrease in small boat arrivals and increased raids targeting illegal working. Additionally, agreements with various countries and the introduction of new legislation are being leveraged to manage migration effectively.

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While these changes may pose challenges, the government remains dedicated to maintaining the attractiveness of the UK's higher education sector and recognizing the valuable contribution of international students. Alternative approaches will be explored in collaboration with universities to ensure that the brightest minds continue to be welcomed to the UK while simultaneously reducing net migration. Looking ahead, the government plans to further tighten regulations, including increasing salary thresholds and reviewing the Graduate route to uphold the integrity of the UK higher education system. This comprehensive approach aims to achieve the largest reduction in migration numbers to date, signaling a tough but fair strategy to bring net migration down to sustainable levels. As these measures are gradually introduced throughout early 2024, affected individuals will be given ample time to prepare for the upcoming changes. The government remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition while prioritizing the integrity and security of the UK's immigration system.

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At Kash legal services, we offer assistance to navigate these complexities, providing expert guidance to both students and universities alike. By staying informed about the latest regulations and offering tailored advice, we can help ensure compliance with immigration laws while facilitating access to education opportunities in the UK.

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UK visa news update, Recently home office has increased compliance visit will potentially surge in sponsor licence suspension and revocation. Therefore, it’s important to ensure compliance obligation by keeping all sponsor licence key details up to date including key personnel, location, and other regular workplaces. Ensuring HR system align with office reporting and designated time frame, and record keeping duties, prevent illegal working, conducting right of work check.

However, recent positive news for UK sponsor licence holder alleviating financial and administrative burden associated with renewal process.   The UK home office has announced from 6 April 2024 Sponsor licence holder expiring after this date will be granted an automatic 10-year extension. This means that no action required by sponsor in this regard. Sponsor can check their licence expiry date by using SMS management system for sponsor.

Further information on sponsor licences compliance please get in touch.  www.kashlegalservices.co.uk Email info@kashlegalservcies.co.uk– TEL 01144000340