In positive news for expatriates and UK employers, the Home Office has announced a significant change to visa processes in 2024. Here are the key points:
- No More Renewals: Starting April 6, the requirement to renew sponsor licenses every four years will be eliminated.
- Automatic Extension: Expired sponsor licenses will be extended by ten years automatically, removing the need for renewals.
- No Action Needed: Sponsors with valid licenses don’t need to do anything; their licenses will be automatically extended.
Earlier Rules:
- Application Changes: Previously, businesses had to apply for license renewal 90 days before expiration.
- Financial Relief: Heavy fees ranging from £536 to £1,476, based on business size and charity status, will no longer be required for renewal.
- Faster Processing: Renewal processing times, which could take up to eight weeks, will be a thing of the past.
The UK Home Office ensures sponsors in the renewal process that application fees will be refunded. Sponsors are encouraged to check their license expiry through the online Sponsorship Management System (SMS), and those in the renewal process have been contacted.
These changes in visa processes align with ongoing discussions and policy updates on immigration in the UK. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government has outlined plans to increase costs for hiring overseas personnel, including a salary requirement hike announced in December.
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