Simplification of the visa system for visitors to the UK

Following concerted pressure from business leaders who complained that the current visit visa system was too complex and bureaucratic, Teresa May outlined her plans to rationalise the visa system for business, tourists and other visitors from April 2015.

The implementation of these plans will effectively reduce the existing 15 different visa types into four categories. The impetus for the change has come following consultations by the Home Office with 100 different organisations and the need for Britain to show that it is very much open for business and wants to encourage global mobility to help businesses operating in the global market in an effort to continue the expansion of the economy.

It is thought that tourist and business visit visas will be rolled into one category so that one can come for a holiday and do business at the same time (previously you would have had to have two separate visas). The second category of visa will allow people to come to undertake paid engagements for performing in concerts theatres or shows. The third category will be for those visiting to marry or enter into civil partnerships, and the final category will be a transit visa for those traveling through the UK going to other destinations.

If you would like further information on this topic or any other related matters please contact the Edwin Coe Employment and Immigration Team.

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