Figures Show Home Office Focus on Illegal Working & Immigration Offences
The Home Office has been increasing efforts to tackle illegal working across the UK, leading to a significant rise in enforcement action. Illegal working & immigration offences According to figures released by the Home Office on 2 December, Immigration Enforcement teams conducted 3,188 visits between 5 July and 31 October 2024, resulting in […]
Visa Extensions for Ukrainian Nationals in the UK
Read our updated guide to the UK immigration routes and schemes for Ukrainian nationals and refugees here. The UK Home Office has issued new temporary guidance for Ukrainian nationals currently present in the UK who need to need to extend their visa but cannot return to Ukraine. Under the UK Immigration Rules, for […]
Settled Status Requirements: Essential Guide
The EU settlement scheme closed to new applications on 30 June 2021. While last applications may be accepted in limited circumstances, the majority of individuals must by now have secured either full or pre settled status. To be granted settled status, applicants had to satisfy specific settled status requirements. These varied depending on nationality, length of […]
ETA Phase Two: Applications Now Open for Non-European Nationals
Phase Two of the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme officially begins on 27 November 2024. From this date, nationals from a range of non-European, visa-exempt countries can begin applying for an ETA in preparation for the 8 January 2025 deadline. After this deadline, travellers from these countries must have an approved ETA or a […]
Skilled Worker Going Rate
One of the eligibility requirements under the Skilled Worker Visa route is that the role being recruited for pays the worker at least the relevant minimum salary threshold. Under the current rules, the minimum threshold for most skilled workers is £38,700 per year, unless the ‘going rate’ for the particular role is higher. A lower […]
Guide to UK Naturalisation Certificate
The naturalisation certificate is issued as evidence that an individual has been granted British citizenship through the legal process of naturalisation. In this guide, we answer some frequently asked questions about naturalisation certificates, including what to do if yours is lost or damaged. What is a naturalisation certificate? A naturalisation certificate is an […]
Changes in Home Office Visa Processing Providers
The Home Office has provided further information about changes to the commercial partners operating some of its visa application centres in the UK and overseas. Visa application centres are managed by private companies, or ‘commercial partners’, on behalf of UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), the Home Office department responsible for administering the country’s visa system […]
Case Study: Sponsor Licence Suspension Cancelled
As the Home Office forges ahead with efforts to crackdown on employer non-compliance, sponsor licence holders are advised to take action to ensure their immigration compliance is in order. One recent case that typifies this current climate of enforcement saw DavidsonMorris engaged to help a care home group deal with a sponsor licence suspension. The […]
31 Dec 2024: Right to Work & End of BRPs
From 1 January 2025, the UK’s new eVisa system will replace physical documents, including Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs), Biometric Residence Cards (BRCs), vignette stickers and stamped endorsements, as proof of immigration status. Individuals holding these documents are required to register for a UKVI account before this deadline to access their eVisa. The account will enable […]
When an Employee Loses their Right to Work
If you become aware that an employee has lost their right to work, your next steps will be critical to ensure you do not breach your obligations under UK immigration and employment laws. In this guide, we explore the necessary steps for employers and the various implications of an employee losing their right to work. […]