We are amid uncertain times and particularly for those wishing to immigrate to the UK. Fortunately, UK Visas & Immigration are being very accommodating to visa applicants in the UK.
If you are stranded in the UK on a visitor visa due to COVID-19 related travel restrictions or self-isolation you can apply for an extension of stay in the UK until 31 July 2020.
This extension process simply involves updating your records with the Coronavirus Immigration Team (CIT). This process does not apply to visa applicants planning to stay in the UK in the long term.
Very importantly – visa applicants who wish to apply for a long-term visa can now do so in the UK until 31 July 2020. This includes applications where applicants would usually need to apply for entry clearance in their home country, such as for settlement spouse and child dependent visas.
The requirements of the relevant visa category will still apply, and applicants will be required to pay the UK application fee of £1033 and the immigration health surcharge. These fees are paid online via credit or debit card once the online application form has been completed.
Applications need to be submitted online before 31 May 2020. And when submitted timeously applicants will have continuing permission to remain in the UK, under their current visa conditions, until the long-term visa application has been decided.
It is important to note that as UK Visa and Citizenship Application Centres (UKVCAS) and Service and Support Centres (SSCs) are temporarily closed because of COVID-19, the mandatory biometric visa appointments cannot be booked at present. Raffin Attorneys will be monitoring this situation carefully, and you are welcome to contact us for any guidance and support that you require in this regard.