UK Visa Extensions Impact From Covid-19
The Home Office last evening announced measures to extend leave
up to 31 May for those individuals currently
affected by the restrictions or self-isolation. Anyone whose leave
expires between 24 January 2020 and 31 May 2020,
and is unable to leave the country ahead of their visa expiry, must
contact the dedicated Coronavirus Immigration Team (CIT) via CIH@homeoffice.gov.uk. In doing so, their
records will be updated and they will be issued with a visa
extension until the end of May.
‘Switching’ extended
To help those who want to apply for visas to stay in the UK
long-term, the Home Office is also temporarily expanding their
in-country switching provisions.
Applications where you would usually need to apply for a visa
from your home country can currently be applied for via the UKVI
‘in-country’ online submission process. The same visa
requirements and UK application fees will apply. Since applications
may take longer than usual due to COVID-19 related operational
pressures, an individual’s leave will remain in tact until
their application is decided.
Compliance requirements temporarily lifted
In light of the current advice on self-isolation and social
distancing, the Home Office also announced it is waiving a number
of requirements on visa sponsors, such as allowing non-EU nationals
here under work or study routes to undertake their work or study
from home.
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guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought
about your specific circumstances.