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Will UK Immigration Changes Be Implemented in 2025? Anxiety Rises as Families and Businesses Are Left Blindsided 

Immigration Changes, Spouse Visa, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

As April 2025 approaches, significant potential changes in UK immigration policies are creating ripples of uncertainty, particularly around the financial requirements for family visas and increased salary thresholds for Skilled Worker visas. Last year, the UK government announced plans to raise salary thresholds in 2025 and paused a proposed increase in the financial threshold for family visas from £29,000 to £38,700. Meanwhile, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has been tasked with reviewing the financial requirements for the Family Visa route. 

Will UK Immigration Changes Be Implemented in 2025? Anxiety Rises as Families and Businesses Are Left Blindsided  Read More »

Text discussing the UK’s digital eVisa rollout, highlighting issues faced by travelers and refugees, including technical glitches, accessibility problems, and operational confusion

UK eVisa Rollout Faces Major Setbacks: Foreign Nationals and Refugees Struggling Just Weeks After Initial Deadline

E-Visa, Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

The UK Home Office’s transition to digital eVisas has sparked significant challenges just weeks after its rollout. Travellers are already encountering difficulties boarding UK-bound flights, while refugees are struggling without adequate proof of their immigration status. Reports of technical glitches, limited accessibility and operational confusion are mounting, raising serious concerns about the system’s readiness.

UK eVisa Rollout Faces Major Setbacks: Foreign Nationals and Refugees Struggling Just Weeks After Initial Deadline Read More »

An article detailing new Home Office regulations effective 31 Dec 2024, prohibiting sponsors from passing sponsorship costs to skilled workers, ensuring fair treatment and preventing exploitation.

Home Office Prohibits Sponsors From Passing on Sponsorship Costs to Skilled Workers

Sponsor Licence, UK Immigration News /

In a significant policy shift, the Home Office has introduced new changes to Part 1 and Part 3 of the Skilled Worker Sponsor Guidance, effective from 31 December 2024. These changes impose stricter obligations on sponsor licence holders and aim to eliminate exploitative practices in the sponsorship system, particularly around financial responsibilities.

Home Office Prohibits Sponsors From Passing on Sponsorship Costs to Skilled Workers Read More »

An article discussing the critical issue of over 1 million people in the UK still needing to obtain eVisas before the 31 December deadline. The text highlights the challenges of transitioning from biometric residence permits (BRPs) to digital eVisas, concerns about the rollout, and efforts by the Home Office to address errors and provide support. It also includes expert opinions, government responses, and a call to action for assistance from Morgan Smith Immigration, an award-winning UK immigration firm

Over 1 Million People in the UK Still Without eVisa

E-Visa, Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

As the deadline for obtaining eVisas approaches, approximately 1 million individuals in the UK still need to secure their digital proof of residency. The eVisa programme, introduced by the previous government, is a digital system designed to confirm the right to live and work in the UK for residents who are not British citizens or passport holders.

Over 1 Million People in the UK Still Without eVisa Read More »

Illustration highlighting common eVisa application issues and solutions, including chip detection problems, viewing eVisa status, and missing app links

Common Issues People Face When Applying for Their eVisa (Part 2)

E-Visa, Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

In the second part of our article, we dive deeper into the technical and procedural challenges people face when applying for their eVisa. Building on the issues covered in Part 1, here are additional problems and practical solutions to streamline the application process.  Issue 1: Problems with Chip Detection  Problem: Many applicants struggle with getting their

Common Issues People Face When Applying for Their eVisa (Part 2) Read More »

Article discussing common issues faced when applying for an eVisa, including difficulties with QR codes, linking new BRPs, and BRC registration, along with practical solutions.

Common Issues People Face When Applying for Their eVisa (Part 1)

E-Visa, Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

Applying for an eVisa can be a daunting process, and many applicants encounter various challenges along the way. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common issues people face when applying for their eVisa and provide practical solutions to help you understand these obstacles. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will address additional issues and offer solutions from our skilled lawyers.

Common Issues People Face When Applying for Their eVisa (Part 1) Read More »

Detailed guide on the UK Ancestry Visa, covering eligibility criteria, application process, ancestry requirements, duration, extensions, and rights for Commonwealth citizens.

UK Ancestry Visa: Eligibility and Requirements

Ancestry Visa, UK Family Visas /

The UK Ancestry visa is a unique opportunity for certain Commonwealth citizens to live and work in the UK. This visa is particularly beneficial for those who have ancestral ties to the UK, allowing them to reconnect with their heritage while enjoying the benefits of residing in the UK. Below, you will find detailed information on the eligibility criteria, application process, and other essential aspects of the UK Ancestry visa.

UK Ancestry Visa: Eligibility and Requirements Read More »

A line graph showing trends in UK sponsored study visa applications (in thousands) from January 2022 to November 2024. The solid purple line represents main applicants, and the dashed gray line represents dependants. Peaks are visible in summer months each year, with a significant drop in dependant applications starting January 2024. Key annotations include "May 2023: Announcement on dependant restrictions" and "Jan 2024: Most students no longer able to bring dependants," highlighting policy changes that caused the decline.

UK Study Visas Drop by 16% Due to Stricter Rules

Student Visa, Study Visa /

The latest statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) paint a striking picture of the decline in UK Study Visas. This downturn is driven primarily by recent policy changes targeting international students and their dependants. Recent statistics released by ONS highlight a significant decline in the issuance of UK study visas, driven by policy

UK Study Visas Drop by 16% Due to Stricter Rules Read More »

An image of miserable and abusive life of Sara Sharif. The image reflects the violence and complex family dynamics.

If Social Workers Were on the Shortage Occupation List, Would Sara Sharif Still Be Alive?

UK Immigration News /

The tragic story of Sara Sharif has brought to light glaring failures in the UK’s immigration, social services, and child protection systems. At the heart of this tragedy is a series of systemic breakdowns that failed to protect a vulnerable child despite overwhelming evidence of abuse. The Journey of a Broken System Sara’s father, Urfan

If Social Workers Were on the Shortage Occupation List, Would Sara Sharif Still Be Alive? Read More »

Checklist of common mistakes to avoid when applying for UK Sponsor Licence

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a UK Sponsor Licence

Sponsor Licence, Sponsor Licence Audit, Sponsor Licence Suspension, UK Immigration News /

Securing a Sponsor Licence is a crucial step for businesses seeking to hire skilled workers from outside the UK. However, the application process is complex, and mistakes can result in delays, refusals, or even compliance penalties. At Morgan Smith Immigration, we understand the challenges businesses face. Here, we outline five common mistakes HR teams often make and offer practical advice to help you understand the process effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a UK Sponsor Licence Read More »

Learn about the eVisa rollout as the Home Office extends the deadline. Explore technical challenges and the need for a robust system.

eVisa Rollout Delayed: Will the New Deadline Solve Ongoing Technical Issues or Create More Chaos?

E-Visa, Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

The Home Office has extended the deadline for the eVisa rollout, pushing the transition start date from 31 December 2024 to the end of March 2025. While this delay offers temporary relief, it highlights deeper issues with the system’s readiness. Persistent technical challenges have sparked fears of significant travel disruptions and chaos at borders, leaving many questioning whether the extended timeline will be enough to resolve these concerns.

eVisa Rollout Delayed: Will the New Deadline Solve Ongoing Technical Issues or Create More Chaos? Read More »

Keir Starmer criticises Conservative immigration policies, highlights Labour’s plans for targeted reforms for reducing net migration.

Keir Starmer’s Migration Plan: Ambitious Reforms or Unrealistic Promises?

Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

PM Keir Starmer has strongly criticised the previous Conservative government’s approach to immigration, describing their policies as a “different order of failure. The Prime Minister accused the Tories of running a “one-nation experiment in open borders” and failing to fulfil repeated promises to reduce net migration. This article delves into Starmer’s pointed remarks, explores the latest immigration statistics, and examines Labour’s plans to address migration challenges.

Keir Starmer’s Migration Plan: Ambitious Reforms or Unrealistic Promises? Read More »

UK government delays eVisa transition due to system glitches

Ministers to Postpone Full eVisa Transition Due to Concerns Over System Glitches

E-Visa, UK Immigration News /

Ministers are set to delay the full transition to eVisas, initially planned for 1 January 2024, due to mounting concerns over system glitches that could leave residents stranded abroad or unable to prove their right to remain in the UK. This delay highlights significant challenges in modernising the UK’s immigration framework, with critics urging the government to resolve these issues before fully phasing out physical documentation like biometric residence permits and adopting the new eVisa System.

Ministers to Postpone Full eVisa Transition Due to Concerns Over System Glitches Read More »

A UK Immigration Service officer conducting inspections, highlighting the government's efforts to tackle visa abuse and hold rogue employers accountable for unethical recruitment practices.

Rogue Employers to Be Banned from Hiring Overseas Talent

Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

The UK Government is introducing stringent measures to address visa abuse and protect overseas workers from exploitation, delivering on a key manifesto commitment to tackle unethical practices in recruitment and employment. Rogue employers who commit serious offences, such as repeated violations of visa rules or failure to pay the National Minimum Wage, will face enhanced penalties, including a ban on sponsoring overseas workers for a minimum of two years.

Rogue Employers to Be Banned from Hiring Overseas Talent Read More »

UK Government announces new immigration rules, including visa requirements for Colombian nationals and updates to the Ukraine Schemes, aimed at strengthening border security.

UK Immigration Rule Updates: Visa Requirements for Colombian Nationals and Ukraine Schemes Changes

Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

The UK Government has announced substantial updates to its immigration policies, reflecting a dual commitment to protecting national borders and providing support to those in need. These changes, part of broader UK immigration reforms, include the reinstatement of visa requirements for Colombian nationals, following concerns over increased asylum claims and border refusals, and significant adjustments to the Ukraine Schemes to ensure continued sanctuary for displaced individuals amid the ongoing conflict.

UK Immigration Rule Updates: Visa Requirements for Colombian Nationals and Ukraine Schemes Changes Read More »

Colombian visa waive visitor

Colombian Visit Visa Waiver comes to an end on the 24th of Dec 2024 

UK Immigration News /

In 2022, the British government made a significant decision to waive visa requirements for Colombian visitors. This move, hailed as a diplomatic achievement by Colombian government, marked a new era of Cooperation and trust between the two nations. For Colombians, it was a moment of pride, as years of negotiations under former Presidents, Ambassador and the Foreign Office Affair finally bore fruit. However, just two years later, this privilege is under scrutiny as reports of prolific system abuse raised concerns about reinstating the visa requirement. The visa exemption was intended to encourage tourism and strengthen cultural and economic ties. Unfortunately, for some individuals it has become an opportunity to exploit the system. A concerning trend has emerged: individuals entering the UK on visitor visas only to overstay and submit asylum applications, often with fabricated claims.  

Colombian Visit Visa Waiver comes to an end on the 24th of Dec 2024  Read More »

Screenshot of the GOV.UK View and Prove Your Immigration Status service showing a restriction message, highlighting issues with the UK eVisa system during its beta phase

Lost BRP, Lost Access: How The Evisa System Fails Those Who Lost Their BRP Cards

UK Immigration News /

The new eVisa system in the UK; designed to streamline immigration status verification, has left many immigrants facing unexpected and stressful challenges. By discontinuing the issuance of replacement Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) cards, individuals who have lost their BRP cards are left without physical proof of their immigration status. To make matters worse, the eVisa

Lost BRP, Lost Access: How The Evisa System Fails Those Who Lost Their BRP Cards Read More »

Sir Keir Starmer discusses his commitment to reducing net migration and the historical challenges of UK immigration.

UK Immigration Policy: The Legacy of Broken Promises and the Challenge Ahead for Keir Starmer

UK Immigration News /

In recent remarks at the Interpol conference, Sir Keir Starmer reaffirmed a familiar commitment to reduce net migration and address the UK’s economic dependency on it. However, his pledge reflects a long-standing pattern of political promises regarding UK immigration that have historically fallen short, leaving the public sceptical of unfulfilled assurances. Starmer’s aims echo those of former leaders like David Cameron, Boris Johnson, and Rishi Sunak, who all grappled with similar goals, yet faced significant barriers when it comes delivering results. This historical context highlights the challenges Starmer faces in distinguishing his immigration strategy from those of his predecessors.

UK Immigration Policy: The Legacy of Broken Promises and the Challenge Ahead for Keir Starmer Read More »

Person holding smartphone displaying UKVI eVisa system, symbolising the shift from physical immigration documents to digital records.

Are Technical Issues Putting Millions at Risk in the eVisa Transition?

E-Visa, Immigration Changes, UK Immigration Changes, UK Immigration News /

The UK Home Office recently introduced the eVisa system, a shift from physical immigration documents to digital records. Although this initiative is intended to streamline immigration status verification, the transition to eVisas has left some residents, especially those who have lived in the UK for decades, feeling uncertain about their future. While this move is intended to streamline processes and enhance security, it has sparked significant concern among long-term residents in the UK, particularly those who are not tech-savvy.

Are Technical Issues Putting Millions at Risk in the eVisa Transition? Read More »

Visa applicants struggling with TLScontact appointment shortages and long-distance travel.

Home Office’s TLScontact Decision: Chaos In Securing Appointments Exposed 

UK Immigration News /

Since TLScontact took over from Sopra Steria for biometric services, the quality of service has ignited controversy and raised questions about the agency’s policy choices. When the Home Office announced this change, there was widespread scepticism about the transition, partly due to reports that services outside the UK have not always met expected standards, including issues with uploading and categorising documents. Initially, TLScontact selected the Interchange Building in Croydon for their visa centre, but they later moved their office to Lansdowne Rd. This unexpected change significantly impacted the availability of appointments and raised critical questions about the Home Office’s policies and their effect on immigration services. Currently, the Home Office has yet to provide guidance on addressing the TLScontact appointment shortage.

Home Office’s TLScontact Decision: Chaos In Securing Appointments Exposed  Read More »

TLScontact Takes Over Sopra Steria: A Troubled Transition 

TLScontact Takes Over Sopra Steria: A Troubled Transition 

UK Immigration News /

On 15th October 2024, TLScontact officially took over the UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) from Sopra Steria. This transition, however, has not been without its challenges. While the change was intended to streamline and improve the visa application process, many users have reported significant issues since TLScontact assumed control. 

TLScontact Takes Over Sopra Steria: A Troubled Transition  Read More »

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