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UK introduces Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for European visitors, enhancing border security and streamlining travel from April 2025.

UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) Now Open for Europeans

Electronic Travel Authorisation, UK Immigration News /

UK government has announced a significant update to its border control system, extending the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme to European visitors. From 2 April 2025, eligible European travellers will need to apply for an ETA before entering the UK. This move marks the final phase of the ETA rollout, following its successful implementation for non-European nationals last year.

UK ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) Now Open for Europeans Read More »

UK Government has come under fire for its recent amendment to Home Office guidance, which effectively blocks British citizenship applications from individuals who have entered the country illegally, regardless of how much time has passed since their arrival. This controversial update, which took effect on 10 February 2025, has sparked criticism from legal experts, refugee advocates and opposition politicians, raising serious concerns about the fairness and impact of the new UK citizenship rules.

A Privilege, Not a Right: UK Citizenship Ban for Illegal Entrants Stirs Controversy

UK Immigration News /

UK Government has come under fire for its recent amendment to Home Office guidance, which effectively blocks British citizenship applications from individuals who have entered the country illegally, regardless of how much time has passed since their arrival. This controversial update, which took effect on 10 February 2025, has sparked criticism from legal experts, refugee

A Privilege, Not a Right: UK Citizenship Ban for Illegal Entrants Stirs Controversy Read More »

An illustration of NHS, representing the process of understanding Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) refunds and eligibility.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Refund Guide

Health and Care Worker Visa /

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee paid by individuals applying for majority of UK visa applications. It grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay. However, under certain circumstances, applicants may be eligible for a full or partial refund of the IHS. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of refund eligibility, processes and special schemes for health and care workers.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Refund Guide Read More »

Stricter Good Character Rules: How Illegal Entry and Dangerous Journeys Could Block Your Path

Naturalisation, UK Settlement Visas /

Thousands of people hoping to become British citizens may now face rejection due to strict new immigration rules introduced by the Home Office on 10 February 2025. The changes mark a significant shift in how illegal entry to the UK is assessed, particularly affecting refugees and others who may have entered the country without proper documentation. Under the updated good character requirements, these individuals could be barred from citizenship, regardless of their circumstances or contributions to society.

Stricter Good Character Rules: How Illegal Entry and Dangerous Journeys Could Block Your Path Read More »

Text discussing the challenges faced by migrant single mothers in the UK care sector due to restrictive immigration policies, focusing on the ‘Sole Responsibility’ requirement and its impact on visa applications for their children. The text highlights the need for urgent policy reform.

‘Sole Responsibility’ Requirement Leave Migrant Single Mothers Separated from Their Children

UK Immigration News /

Thousands of migrant single mothers working in the UK’s care sector have been denied visas for their children due to the UK’s restrictive immigration policies, particularly the sole responsibility requirement. A new report highlights the systemic discrimination and distress caused by these policies, urging the government to implement fairer immigration measures.

‘Sole Responsibility’ Requirement Leave Migrant Single Mothers Separated from Their Children Read More »

Overview of the good character requirement for British citizenship, detailing key factors and Home Office updates for naturalisation and registration

Good Character Requirement for British Citizenship

Naturalisation, UK Settlement Visas /

The good character requirement is a fundamental aspect of registration as a British citizen and naturalisation as a British citizen. It is critical to understand its background, the factors involved in assessing good character and updates to the Home Office guidance. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the good character requirement for British Citizenship.

Good Character Requirement for British Citizenship Read More »

MPs criticize UK family visa rules, calling them ‘a tax on love,’ highlighting the emotional and social impact of the income threshold on families and children.

MPs Slam UK Family Visa Rules as ‘A Tax on Love’

Fiance Visa, Spouse Visa, UK Family Visas /

The recent increase in the minimum income threshold for UK family visa has sparked widespread concern among campaigners, families, and MPs alike. As of April 2024, British citizens or settled residents must now earn at least £29,000 to sponsor their partner’s visa, a significant jump from the previous requirement of £18,600. Critics argue that this “tax on love” is creating a barrier for families seeking to build their lives in the UK, leaving children and couples facing prolonged separation.

MPs Slam UK Family Visa Rules as ‘A Tax on Love’ Read More »

msi_uk_immigration_EUSS_automation_changes.jpg

EU SETTLEMENT SCHEME (EUSS) STATUS AUTOMATION

UK Immigration News /

The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) has played a pivotal role in providing over 5.7 million EEA and Swiss citizens and their family members with the necessary immigration status to continue living and working in the UK post-Brexit. Under the scheme, successful applicants are granted either pre-settled or settled status based on their length of residence in the UK.

EU SETTLEMENT SCHEME (EUSS) STATUS AUTOMATION Read More »

msi_uk_immigration_spouse_visa_changes.jpg

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 »

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