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How COVID-19 Is Affecting UK Visa Applications: What You…
Travel Restrictions and Visa Application Processing Times
Applying for a visa to enter the United Kingdom is already a complex process, and the COVID-19 pandemic has made it even more challenging. One of the most significant ways the pandemic is affecting visa applications is through travel restrictions. Should you desire to dive deeper into the subject, https://www.immtell.com. We’ve specially prepared this external content, where you’ll find valuable information to broaden your knowledge.
Currently, the UK has implemented travel restrictions that prevent people from certain countries from entering the UK. Additionally, there are restrictions on ordinary travel, and visas are only being issued for people with essential reasons to travel. This means that if you were planning on coming to the UK on a holiday, it is highly likely that your application will be denied or delayed.
Another way the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting visa applications for people who are already in the UK is through processing times. Due to the pandemic, the UK visa processing center has seen significant delays in processing applications. As a result, many applicants are experiencing long waiting times and are having to wait several months to hear back about their visa application.
Changes to the Immigration Health Surcharge
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) was implemented in 2015 as a way to provide funding to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). People who were applying for a UK visa were required to pay the IHS as part of their application fee. However, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the UK government has made changes to the IHS.
From October 2020, the IHS charge for non-EEA nationals has increased from £400 to £624 per year, and a new discounted rate of £470 per year has been introduced for children. Additionally, the IHS has been extended to cover more visa categories, including the UK’s Youth Mobility Scheme and the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) visa. These changes will have an impact on the cost of visa applications and may make it more difficult for some people to afford to come to the UK.
Remote English Language Testing
One of the requirements for some UK visas is the ability to speak English. Traditionally, applicants would have to go to an approved testing center in person to take an English language test. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many testing centers have had to close. This has resulted in a change in policy, and UK visa applicants are now able to take their English language test remotely.
The use of remote English language testing has been introduced on a temporary basis, and it is not clear how long this will remain in place. Additionally, not all visa categories are currently eligible for remote testing, so it is essential to check the requirements before applying for a visa.
Conclusion
Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on UK visa applications. With travel restrictions in place and visa processing times delayed, it is more important than ever to plan ahead and leave plenty of time for your visa application to be processed. Additionally, the changes to the IHS may make it more expensive for some people to apply for a UK visa. Finally, the use of remote English language testing is a positive change that allows people to take their test from home.
If you are considering applying for a UK visa, it is essential to stay up to date with the latest changes to policies and procedures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By doing so, you can make sure that your application is successful and that you can travel to the UK when you need to. Enhance your study and broaden your understanding of the subject by exploring this thoughtfully chosen external material. apply for a health and care visa https://www.immtell.com, discover new perspectives and additional information!
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