19 March 2020
Immigration update: Coronavirus
Further to our last alert of 12 March 2020, we write to update you in relation to the fast moving UK immigration implications of coronavirus. As set out below, there is still a lack of clarity in terms of visa applications being submitted around the world and in the UK. The Immigration team are in touch with Director level staff at the Home Office and seeking clarification on a number of issues affecting visa application and sponsor compliance during the crisis. We are urging UKVI and the Home Office to update its guidance of 27 February 2020 to provide greater clarity. However, in the meantime, through our regular communication channels with senior level contacts around the world, we can provide the following updates.
19 March 2020
COVID-19: 'Remote' justice update - Louise Hodges quoted in New Law Journal
Louise Hodges, Head of the Criminal Litigation team is quoted in New Law Journal on the concerns among those working in the criminal justice system.
18 March 2020
COVID-19 - Managing health and risk whilst in police custody
At the time of this blog, according to officials, the criminal justice system continues to operate ‘as normal’. Whilst it is to be expected that non-essential trials will likely be delayed, certain components of the justice system cannot simply be deferred - crime happens no less in times of pandemic. Police custody is one such area where the wheels will need to continue to turn regardless of COVID-19.
17 March 2020
Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Global efforts to manage and mitigate the impact of the COVID-19 virus are creating extraordinary challenges for everyone.
13 March 2020
IHS fee increase - you can't budget for it
It was confirmed in this week’s Budget that the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) will be increasing from £400 to £624 per year of the visa. The IHS is a visa fee applicable to overseas nationals for the NHS. The measure also increases the discounted rate for students, their dependants and those applying for Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme) visas from £300 to £470 per year of the visa. In a new tweak to the previous arrangements, the surcharge will be set at the lower £470 rate for all children under the age of 18.
