The U.K. launches a digital visa system

A U.S.-style electronic travel authorisation has been launched by the UK government. The announcement to this effect has recently been made by the Home Secretary Priti Patel.

In a virtual speech, Patel has stated that the planned system – to be similar to the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization [ESTA] – will be applicable to any entrant without an existing visa or immigration status, thereby making U.K. immigration “simpler and secure”.

According to Patel, “It is an undeniable fact that immigration has and continues to enrich – in every sense of the word – our nation immeasurably.   People from every part of the world are here in the UK and are making enormous contributions to our society, culture, economy, and individual lives.”

The latest U.K. immigration update follows on the introduction of the new U.K. points-based immigration system.

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Further, Patel went on to state that as the reformed immigration policy was being shaped, “it is fair, rational, and right that we think about the skills our country needs to flourish”.

Published in May 2021, the New Plan for Immigration: Legal Migration and Border Control Strategy Statement lays down that the introduction of the new points-based system of the U.K. marked the “the beginning of a wider multi-year programme of change”.

With the ambitious vision of a Global Britain, the U.K. Home Office will enable more –

• Academics,
• Entrepreneurs,
• Investors,
• Scientists, and
• Students

to come to the U.K., contributing to the economic growth of the country.

As per the official Statement, “over the next four years, we will implement transformational change for everyone who interacts with the immigration system and crosses the border.”

The U.K. government will be providing a completely end-to-end customer experience for individuals from the way that they – 1.     Apply online, 2.     Prove their identity, 3.     Provide evidence of meeting the relevant criteria, 4.     Receive and use poof of their status for crossing the U.K. border.

With these reforms, the U.K. government will be ensuring that U.K. businesses have access to talent from all over the world so that the U.K. can “Build Back Better” from the COVID-19 pandemic, supporting the national economic recovery.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit, Invest or Migrate to the UK, talk to Y-Axis, the World’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company.

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