In March 2020 the UK went into a full public lockdown to try to slow the spread of COVID-19. This didn’t just affect individuals, it massively impacted the function of public institutions, including the courts. For migrants in the UK and those outside of the UK seeking entry, this has resulted in some serious problems.
The Home Office and Entry Clearance Officers paused consideration of all immigration applications. People who needed to make applications, found that they could not get appointments to enrol their biometrics – the final step in the process of any submission to the Home Office. Those who had pending immigration appeals or Judicial Reviews found that these were delayed as courts could not be safely opened. Most face to face hearings were replaced by an arms-length process to ensure that, when the courts re-opened, cases could resume quickly.
Worrying about an application whilst dealing with the effects of a global pandemic is difficult. If you recognise this situation and it has left you feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. There is some good news though.
The Home Office are now processing applications again, so you can start planning for your future in the UK. You should however be aware that making an immigration application is a lengthy, complex and uncertain process and our team of Immigration experts believe that they can help you to understand where you stand on every step of that process.
Seek clear advice to maximise your chances of success
Our experienced Immigration lawyers want to make the application process accessible and will support you at every stage. We will give you specific advice based on your personal circumstances. Call us on 0151 282 1700 and begin your journey to a better future.
Is COVID-19 continuing to make immigration applications difficult?
Yes, but this should not stop you from progressing with your application. Remember, the steps you need to take to maximise your chances of success depend on your personal circumstances.
For those applying inside the UK
Good News! The Home Office have started processing applications again and some Visa Application Centres have re-opened. However, the centres are working through the backlog of applications in the order in which they were received and they are prioritising biometric enrolment appointments.
As not all the centres are open yet, and some are charging for ‘peak time’ appointments you may find there are extra costs to your application.
On a brighter note, COVID has resulted in one good development. If you are renewing an existing leave to remain, then you may not need to actually attend a biometric appointment as the Home Office are trying out a process that uses fingerprints you have already given them.
For applicants from outside the UK
- If you made an application and attended a biometric enrolment appointment prior to lockdown, consideration of these applications has resumed and there is nothing you need to do.
- If you applied but did not get an appointment, the situation depends on where you are in the world. The two main companies who process UK entry clearance appointments have helpful sites that confirm what centres are open. Visit VFS here and TLS here. If the centre you booked is open, you should be able to arrange an appointment.
- If you have not yet applied you should check the above lists to see where you can submit your application. If you get an appointment, be prepared for a long wait. We recommend using the extra time you have check your application and evidence requirements to make sure your submission is 100% correct.
For those with appeals pending
The Immigration Tribunal has resumed hearing cases. Strict measures are now in place so that social distancing guidelines can be observed. Some important considerations:
- Your witnesses may attend over video-link – perhaps even from a room in the same building!
- You should inform your representative immediately if you cannot attend a hearing due to vulnerability, self-isolating or other conditions.
- Your case may be delayed and unfortunately you will have to wait. This does give you the opportunity to review your case or seek further advice.
We understand that waiting for such life-changing decisions is frustrating and that the future still looks uncertain as the COVID situation develops.
But remember, these delays are an opportunity to check your application, ask for clear advice on your personal circumstances and ake sure you have all the necessary evidence. You need to get this right first time around as second chances will be expensive and at the moment, very time consuming.
Our Immigration experts will support you every step of the way through this uncertainty, ensuring that you and your family know where you stand.
To book a 'Where Do I Stand?' consultation call us now on 0151 282 1700.