UK Visa 2015

In 2015, the United Kingdom launched a new visa system, which significantly impacted the process of obtaining visas for travelling to the UK. The new system aimed to simplify the application process and make it more efficient. This article will discuss the key changes introduced in the UK visa system in 2015.

Changes in Visa Types

The new UK visa system introduced several changes to the types of visas available. For example, the Tier 1 (General) visa, which allowed highly skilled workers to enter the UK without a job offer, was abolished. Instead, a new Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa was created for individuals who wished to start or invest in a business in the UK. Similarly, a new Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) visa was created for employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to a UK branch of their organisation.

New Application Process

The UK visa application process was also revamped with the introduction of new online application forms. Applicants could now complete and submit their applications online and pay the visa fees electronically. This change significantly reduced the amount of paperwork involved in the application process and allowed for faster processing times.

English Language Requirements

From 2015, all applicants for UK visas were required to demonstrate that they could speak and understand English. This test was mandatory for applicants of all nationalities unless they were exempted by the Immigration Rules. The test was designed to ensure that individuals could communicate effectively in English, which is essential for integration into UK society and for successfully carrying out everyday activities.

Biometric Residence Permits

All applicants who were granted a UK visa after 2015 were issued a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). A BRP is a small, secure card that contains personal details, fingerprints, and a photograph of the holder. The BRP must be collected within ten days of arriving in the UK. This new system replaced the old vignette system, which was a sticker placed in the passport indicating visa approval.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the changes introduced in the UK visa system in 2015 made the process of obtaining a UK visa more efficient and streamlined. The introduction of the online application process meant that applicants could submit their applications from anywhere in the world and receive a quicker decision. The English language requirement ensured that immigrants could communicate effectively in English, which is essential for integration into UK society. Finally, the introduction of the Biometric Residence Permit provided an extra layer of security and made it easier for border officials to verify the identity of the visa holder.