South African artist denied a UK visa
November 04 2009 by Liam Clifford
South African appeals decision for UK visa and is rejected the week he has an exhibition in the UK.
A South African artist has been denied a UK visa, on appeal, on the grounds that he does not have a university degree.
Nikhil Singh, an artist from South Africa and the illustrator for the newly acclaimed graphic novel "Salem Brownstone: All Along the Watchtowers" was told of the decision this week.
Although his work has been praised by leading artists such as Alan Moore and publications such as the Metro and Sunday Express, due to the new points-based system being introduced for people entering the UK, he is now not eligible for a UK visa.
As the rules were changed in June 2008, Singh, as well as any other writers, artists or composers are now asked to apply under the tier 1 category for 'highly skilleed migrants'. This means that if you are an artist either asking for permission for leave to enter or remain you will come under much stricter rules.
The Home Office ruling has ramifications for other artists or writers that may be in the same position as Singh, the implications particularly affecting those from poorer countries who will be more likely not to have a university degree.
The case means that no matter how skilled you are in your profession, it is very unlikely that you will be granted a UK skilled migrant visa unless you fulfil the criteria.
See the latest Immigration News
