Call us on +44 20 3384 3075

English
Chinese
Russian

15 May Free visa extensions for all frontline healthcare staff

Posted on May 15, 2020 in EU Immigration, Investing in the UK, Migra & Co, Nationality & Citizenship, Other Visas, Spouses & Partners, Visa Refusals, Working in the UK by
0 Likes

The Home Secretary, Priti Patel, announced on 29 April 2020 that due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, all frontline healthcare workers will be able to renew their visas free of charge for 1 year, if it expires before 1 October 2020.

In order to qualify for an extension, applicants must meet the following requirements:

  • Have a visa which will expire before 1 October 2020
  • Work for the NHS or independent healthcare provider, you must be in an eligible profession.

A few of the eligible professions include, nurses, midwives, radiographers, social workers, dental professionals, ophthalmologist, pharmacists, paramedics, podiatrists, physiotherapists and psychologists. However, it would be best to check with your employer to ensure you qualify.

The extension will be granted from the date that the visa is due to expire, this also applies to family members. In addition, applicants will also be exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is currently £400 per year and will increase to £624 per year in October 2020.

How can I get an extension?

Your employer will need to contact UKVI in order to let them know that you are eligible for the extension.

You will then be asked by your employer to post your current biometric card to the UKVI, which will then be returned to you once your visa has been extended.

If you have already paid for an extension of your leave and paid the UKVI fees, you can withdraw your application and claim a refund.

 

The content of this article is for general use and information only. Since each case should be prepared on its own merit and in light of the constant amendments to the Immigration Rules, it is important to note that the information provided must not be relied upon unless Migra & Co has either given written consent or has been officially engaged in relation to a specific immigration matter. As a result, Migra & Co will take no responsibility for any damage, cost or loss resulting from relying on the information contained in this article, blog and website.