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Five more countries added to UK National Visa List
A Statement of Changes on Immigration Rules was issued by the Home Office on 19 July 2023. It will be implemented with immediate effect.
Citizens of the following countries will now need a UK Visitor Visa if staying for less than 6 months:
- Dominica
- Honduras
- Namibia
- Timor-Leste
- Vanuatu
The Government has departed from their usual convention of a 21-day scrutiny period before implementing visa changes. They stated that it is necessary to protect the national immigration system. This is because they believe that a 21-day period would see an increase in people from the five newly added nations.
The 1962 Visa Treaty between the UK and Honduras has been suspended. This treaty previously allowed visa free travel between the two countries. It has not yet been announced what the outcome of the suspension is.
Why have these changes been made?
The Government has added Dominica, Honduras, Namibia, Timor-Leste or Vanuatu to the National Visa List so they can refuse the visas of high risk individuals before they attempt to enter the UK.
What if I arranged to go to the UK before the changes?
A transitionary period has been introduced for those who are travelling to the UK before 16 August 2023. These visa changes will be fully implemented when this date has passed.
Citizens of the 5 countries, Dominica, Honduras, Namibia, Timor-Leste or Vanuatu, who confirmed their booking before 3pm on 19 July, and those who will arrive in the UK before 16 August 2023, WILL NOT require a Visitor Visa.
The Visa update will affect those who book after 19 July, or those who are due to arrive after 16 August 2023. You WILL require a Visitor Visa if either of these conditions apply to you.
Please note: the transitionary period has now ended as of 17 August 2023.
How much will a UK Visitor Visa cost and what can I do while in the UK?
The Standard UK Visitor Visa application currently costs £100.
You can stay in the UK for up to 6 months on the Standard Visitor Visa. Similarly, you can apply at least 3 months in advance of when you are due to arrive in the UK.
Here are some things you can do when visiting the UK:
- Go on holiday
- Visit family
- Undergo medical procedures
- Take part in a school exchange programme
- Here are some things you cannot do when in the UK on a Visitor Visa:
- Undertake paid work.
- Claim benefits.
- Get married (you will need a Marriage Visa instead).
(This list is not exclusive, check here for the full list)
Contact us for our expert advice
If you are from Dominica, Honduras, Namibia, Timor-Leste or Vanuatu and are looking to come to the UK on the UK Visitor Visa, we can help.
Woodcock Law & Notary Public is experienced at assisting with UK Visa applications.
Contact us now for your FREE 10 minute consultation.
Ready for assistance?
If you have any questions about the changes or want legal advice, contact
Woodcock Law & Notary Public today. Contact us by phone on +44 (0)20 7712 1705 or
by email at info@woodcocklaw.co.uk.
