The visa extensions will be granted to anyone whose leave expired after 24 January who cannot leave the UK due to self-isolation or restrictions on travel. Many foreign nationals are unable to return home because the spread of Covid-19 has led to flight cancellations and border controls. Anyone who is in this situation can email the Home Office (CIH@homeoffice.gov.uk) to request a visa extension.
The UK government has promised that no immigration enforcement will be taken against those who email the Home Office. However, they do emphasise that people granted a visa extension through this scheme must still leave the country as soon as flight and border restrictions are lifted.
In-Country Switching Provisions
The Home Office is temporarily extending its in-country switching provisions, to enable those who wish to remain in the UK to switch their visas more easily. This means that those who would need to leave the UK to apply for entry clearance under a different immigration category can now, temporarily, do so in the UK.
Sponsor Licence Changes
Because of the advice on social distancing, the Home Office has relaxed some conditions for sponsor licence employers. These changes allow non-EU national workers to work and study at home.
Do You Need to Apply for a UK Visa Extension?
As it stands, foreign nationals due to leave the UK after 24th January are still required to leave the UK after 31st May. A foreign national whose visa expires on 31st May will need to apply for an extension (or switch their visa) to remain in the UK after 31st May.
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.
