UK VISA APPLICANTS AFFECTED BY THE PANDEMIC | COVID-19 UPDATE
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) have made new changes to the present group of guidance for visa applicants adversely affected by the travel limitations enforced because of the Covid-19 pandemic. These changes are for the reasons of giving clarification to visa applicants who have visas expiring after 31st August 2020.
It is very crucial for visa applicants whose visa expires after the end of August to observe the following points:
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Exceptional Assurance
Visa applicants who have been recommended to apply for ‘exceptional assurance’ before the end of August 2020 if their visa expires between 1st September and 31st October 2020 and they plan to leave the UK but were unable to do so due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Even though this does not allow migrants right to remain, it does allow them additional time to live in the UK and freedom from the consequences of staying in the UK after their visa expires.
Where visa applicants have failed to apply for Exceptional Assurance from the Covid-19 Immigration Team (CIT) before 31st August 2020, they are strongly recommended to make the essential travel arrangements to depart from the UK immediately.
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Visa applications for leave to remain in the UK
For those migrants who intend to reside in the UK and their visa is about to expire, they are urged to make a visa application for leave to remain in the UK. Where visa applicants would normally have to make their visa applications from their home countries, they can now apply from inside the UK.
Please keep in mind that applications should be submitted on the basis that they fulfill the necessary obligations for their chosen immigration path and pay the UK application fee.
For UK visa applications that need to be verified as a matter of urgency, for example their visa expires after 31st August 2020 and they need to instantly begin a new course of study or job, their visa applications must have backup documents and a covering letter attached to explain the imperative nature of their visa application.
Visa applicants who are applying for entry clearance but their Visa Application Centre (VAC) remains out of service or momentarily closed, there is a temporary concession where they can select a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in any country to submit their visa application and biometrics. This should be in accordance with the country’s entry requirements and will be subject to review later this year.