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UK: Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules
September 17, 2021
The Home Office has issued its latest Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules. With a number of technical and minor changes being implemented, we outline below the key developments most likely to impact Newland Chase’s clients.
New ‘International Sportsperson’ route
Replacing the existing Tier 2 and Tier 5 Temporary Worker, this new route for professional sporting workers promises “simplified, dedicated visa arrangements” for those wishing to come to the UK for 12 months or less. As previously required, applicants will need to secure an endorsement from a Sports Governing Body and Certificate of Sponsorship from a club, however there will be an additional need to demonstrate English language ability for those who apply for a stay that exceeds 12 months.
Youth Mobility Scheme Welcomes Iceland and India
In addition to a rebrand from Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Youth Mobility Scheme to Youth Mobility Scheme, Iceland and India are to join the small list of eligible nationalities under this route. Iceland will be a country without Deemed Sponsorship Status, with an allocation of 1,000 places. For Indian nationals, invitation to apply arrangements will apply. The route is also to be updated to allow citizens and nationals or the rightful holder of a passport issued by a territory without Deemed Sponsorship Status to apply for this route from any overseas post that accepts such applications.
Visitors
Amendments will allow students to come to the UK to carry out activities relating to a course they are undertaking at a UK institution from overseas via distance learning.
Clarification is to be provided on overseas manufacturers or suppliers (including third parties contracted for after sales services), confirming that their employees may visit UK customers (with whom they have a contract of purchase, supply, or lease, or, in the case of third parties delivering after sales service, if contracted at time of sale/lease/warranty or service contract incidental to the sale or lease) to install, maintain, service or advise on equipment, software or hardware, as well as train UK based workers to provide these services.
British National (Overseas) – Change to Eligibility Requirements
A concession previously made outside the Immigration Rules permitting the partner and, if applicable, child under 18 of a British National (Overseas) (“BNO”) status holder to join the BNO status holder has now been incorporated into Appendix Hong Kong British National (Overseas).
Our Advice
Individuals who may be affected are encouraged to contact a Newland Chase immigration specialist for case-specific advice.
For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to the UK, please contact us.
