LS Legal News Bulletin
UK Immigration: Key Changes This Month Explained
Monday 18th March 2024
🇺🇦 Ukrainian Visa Holders in the UK: 18-Month Extension
In early 2025, eligible individuals can apply online for an additional 18 months. Eligibility includes holders of Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Family Scheme, Ukraine Extension Scheme visas, and those granted leave outside immigration rules. Applications can be made within the last three months of an existing visa.
❗ The extension does not lead to ILR. If you wish to settle in the UK, contact us to explore alternative visa options.
👷♂️ UK Employers: Updated Right-to-Work Regulations
The Home Office released updated right-to-work guidance. The 28-day concession period for late EU Settlement Scheme applications is abolished. Employers must now take immediate action if an employee loses their right to work. Employers offering supplementary employment must ensure compliance with visa terms, including limits on hours and roles.
🧳 Business Visitors to the UK: New Visitor Rules
Notable changes include expanded intra-corporate activities and clarified remote working policies. Remote work is permitted as long as it is not the primary purpose of the visit, with certain restrictions. Legal service provisions have also been extended and are no longer limited to UK-based clients. While offering more opportunities, visitors must still adhere to general visitor requirements.
⛔ Sponsor Licence Application: Rejection, Refusal, or Success?
Home Office decisions on sponsor licence applications include rejection, refusal, or granting with an A rating. Rejection occurs for invalid applications, for example, incorrect fees. Rectifying issues allows resubmission. Refusal grounds include unspent convictions, lack of genuine employment, or inadequate HR systems. If refused, reapplication is possible after the cooling-off period. No appeal exists for refusal, but a review may be requested within 14 days for caseworker errors.
👋 We offer advice for challenging sponsor licence applications and help you understand reapplication criteria thoroughly - book a consultation with us today.
