Those in the UK with a visa that expires between 24 January and 31 May 2020 will have it extended to 31 May if they cannot leave the UK due to either travel restrictions or self-isolation for coronavirus. Those affected must fill out an online form.
NHS workers
Some NHS workers and their families will get an automatic one-year visa extension. As well as doctors, nurses and paramedics and their family members, the scheme has been extended to cover more frontline workers, including midwives, social workers, radiographers and pharmacists.
Visa application centres
All visa centres in the UK and overseas are closed. Those with appointments will have them rescheduled or be entitled to a refund.
Asylum
The Home Office has paused face to face asylum interviews. All scheduled interviews have been cancelled.
Travel documents
The Home Office has set up a process for urgent applications for travel documents.
Bail reporting
Immigration bail reporting is temporarily paused. People on immigration bail should have a text message to tell them not to report.
Right to work checks
The Home Office says that employers must still carry out immigration status checks on employees to ensure they have the right to work in the UK. The checks can be carried out remotely. The guidance says that employees can submit a copy of their ID and verify it on a video call.
Right to rent checks
A similar procedure applies to landlords checking on the immigration status of tenants.
EU Settlement Scheme
There are delays in decision-making and the telephone helpline for EU settled status enquiries has been closed. Documents are no longer accepted by post, but emails are being answered.
Citizenship
It is taking longer than usual to process citizenship applications but it will not affect decisions. Would-be citizens have six months to book a citizenship ceremony instead of three.
Scarsdale Immigration Solicitors
Scarsdale Solicitors Oldham, Scarsdale Solicitors Manchester and Scarsdale Solicitors Rochdale are continually monitoring the evolving COVID19 (Coronavirus) situation and following all guidance and advice that is issued by the NHS, Public Health England and the UK Government. Our Rochdale immigration solicitors, Oldham immigration solicitors and Manchester Immigration solicitors clients can rest assured that we remain open for business to support you at this time.
