UK visa changes "good for the community."
October 15 2009 by Liam Clifford
A solicitor from the Midlands has said that the changes in the process migrants go through in the transgression from UK work visas to British citizenship is “good for the community."
In the past UK permanent residence could only be applied for after a minimum of six years of working in the UK, on a UK working visa, it was also possible having been in the country for three years to then marry a British person to gain British citizenship.
New changes to the Immigration act 2009 now means that a process of citizenship earned through merit will be introduced.
UK immigration has introduced the new points-based system for applicants of UK Visas and permits as of last year. The new system of earning points is to now extend to granting permanent residency in the UK, it is also expected that the possibility of raising or lowering the points threshold will provide more control for the government in making decisions regarding UK immigration.
The new legislation for “earned citizenship” is currently being reviewed and subject to public consultation, if passed the term will apply to individuals who have had five years temporary residency, they will then move up to a probationary citizenship period of between one to five years
It is said the new measure will see the task of becoming a British citizen become easier; individuals will earn points for taking up community roles, which will in turn speed up the process.
Business leaders have said the changes in UK immigration law will be welcomed, and that they will have a positive effect on local communities as immigrants are asked to integrate more into British society.
See the latest Immigration News
