LS Legal News Bulletin
June 2024 Legal Updates
Wednesday 3rd July 2024
In this edition, you'll find coverage on a range of topics shaping current immigration policies, including significant announcements from the Home Office, insights into forthcoming business immigration proposals ahead of the general election, and crucial updates on applying for indefinite leave to remain as a victim of domestic abuse.
Additionally, look at securing a UK visitor visa, exploring the pivotal role of financial documentation in the application process.
Home Office Targets Compliance: Skilled Worker Licence Suspensions Soar
The Home Office increased suspensions and revocations of Skilled Worker sponsor licences in early 2024, with 309 licences suspended and 210 revoked between January and March. This surge is partly due to efforts to combat abuse in the care sector, indicating that all sponsors should ensure compliance. Common issues include misunderstanding employment requirements, miscalculating remuneration, changes in employment conditions, and failures in reporting for both workers and sponsors. To mitigate risks, we conduct mock audits and monitor compliance trends, advising clients on addressing and preventing breaches.
General Election 2024: Business Immigration Proposals
With the general election approaching, major parties have outlined their business immigration proposals. The current government aims to cut net migration by increasing salary thresholds and limiting sponsorable roles in the Skilled Worker route. The Liberal Democrats advocate replacing salary thresholds with a flexible merit-based system and introducing an EU-wide youth mobility scheme. Labour focuses on training British workers and potentially imposing longer bans on employers who breach employment laws. For employers reliant on overseas recruitment, the future of the immigration system remains uncertain, pending the outcome of the general election and subsequent policy developments.
Domestic Abuse and ILR: What You Need to Know About Updated Rules
The new rules for applying for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) as a victim of domestic abuse require proof that your relationship ended due to abuse. Abuse can be physical, sexual, psychological, economic, or involve controlling behaviour between individuals over 16 who are personally connected. The guidance emphasises understanding the trauma victims face and the challenges in providing evidence, such as fear of reporting due to immigration status or child custody issues. Presenting a clear picture of the abuse and its impact is essential. We offer personalised advice to support you through the process.
Securing UK Visitor Visa: Crucial Role of Finances
Clients frequently ask us about the financial requirements for a UK visitor visa and what evidence is necessary. While there is no set amount of money, the Home Office considers financial circumstances in visa refusals. The visitor visa's "genuine visitor requirement" demands assurance that applicants will leave the UK after their visit, will not reside long-term, and can cover all trip costs without resorting to UK work or public funds. Decision makers scrutinise financial evidence like bank statements to assess the credibility of these claims and evaluate ties to the applicant's home country.
Comprehensive preparation, including thorough documentation of finances and ties to the applicant's home country, significantly enhances the likelihood of visa approval. Contact us for expert assistance tailored to meet your specific needs.
