Immigration - UK to modernize tourist and business visa system
London - The British government has announced its plans to modernize the short-term visa system to ensure that the country is attractive to business and tourism, while deterring those who seek to break the rules.
In the new system, the key points are that: the maximum leave for visitors will remain at six months; new sponsored family visitor category with licensed sponsors vouching for their family members’ visits.
No plans to introduce financial bonds for family visitors; new proposals for tourist visas, including group travel and special events visas and; a distinct clear category for business visitors.
All the changes in the system follow a three-month consultation. For the first time, this consultation process included engagement with foreign communities abroad, as well as communities in the United Kingdom. The majority of responses received were from individual members of the public.
The UK Minister of State for Borders and Immigration, Liam Byrne, said “we know that many people have a stake in us getting this policy right. We, therefore, issued a consultation document last year.
“The changes I am announcing will help create a fairer Britain with fair treatment for those who play by the rules, but tough action against those who break the law.
“We want the UK to stay open and attractive for both business and visitors. But at the same time, we are determined to deliver a system of border security which is among the most secure in the world.”
The system for sponsored family visitors will see significant changes. British citizens and those with indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK will be required to become licensed sponsors before family members can visit from abroad.
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