Tightened Visa Policy Implemented: What You Need to Know

On April 13, 2021, the United Kingdom implemented a tightened visa policy which affects individuals seeking to travel to the UK for work or study. The changes in the policy have raised concerns among international students and business professionals. In this article, we will highlight the key aspects of the tightened visa policy and what you need to know before applying for a visa.

What are the changes in the visa policy?

The tightened visa policy includes changes in the eligibility criteria, application process, and fees. One of the major changes is the increase in the minimum salary requirement to ￡25,600 for skilled workers. In addition, the threshold for jobs eligible for sponsorship has been raised, making it more difficult for individuals to qualify for a visa. Moreover, individuals will now have to pay ￡624 for health surcharge, which will be valid for only six months instead of the previous 12 months.

How will the changes affect international students?

International students will also be affected by the new visa policy. The post-study work visa, which allowed international graduates to remain in the UK for up to two years and find work after completing their studies, has been replaced by the Graduate route. The Graduate route will allow international graduates to stay in the UK for up to two years, but they will need to have completed their studies in the UK and have a valid Tier 4 visa. Furthermore, the visa application fee has increased to ￡348 for international students, which is higher than the fee for most other visa categories.

What can you do to prepare for the tightened visa policy?

If you are planning to travel to the UK for work or study, it is important to prepare yourself for the changes in the visa policy. Firstly, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for the visa you are applying for. You should also be prepared to pay higher fees and provide additional documentation to support your application. It is recommended that you seek advice from a qualified immigration consultant or lawyer before submitting your application.

Furthermore, it is important to be aware of the processing times for your visa application as they may be longer than usual due to the increase in demand and additional checks being implemented. It is advisable to submit your application well in advance to avoid any delays or complications.

Conclusion

The tightened visa policy has made it more difficult for individuals to obtain a visa to travel to the UK for work or study. However, by being prepared and meeting the eligibility criteria, you can increase your chances of success. It is important to stay informed about any future changes in the policy and to seek advice from qualified professionals before submitting your application.