Changes to immigration Rules 1st October 2013

The Home Office has recently announced the latest statement of changes to the Immigration Rules, which on this occasion run to a total of 98 pages.  The changes came into effect on the 1st October 2013.

Changes due to be introduced include:

The expansion of Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent)

Changes to Tier 2 to make the rules slightly more flexible

Expanding the “genuineness” test

Amending the Knowledge of Language and life in the UK to bringing it in line with the 8th April 2013, Statement of Intent

The creation of two categories of visitors for certain Commonwealth Games Family members

Amendment of the rules to reflect the decision of the High court in R (on application of Zhang) v SSHD

Allowing Tier 4 UK degree graduates to switch into a 12 month internship under Tier 5 Government Authorised Exchange category (providing internship relates to their degree)

Introduction of General Grounds for refusal criminality thresholds to ILR applications by Refugees and those with Humanitarian Protection

Rules to permit grant of entry clearance to those eligible for the Relocation element of the Redundancy Scheme (Locally engaged Afghanistan staff)

Minor changes to the wording of the rules relating to Family Life

Changes to the basis for curtailment of leave (Paragraph 322(5A))

Changes to the rules governing overseas Domestic Workers who entered under the rules before 6th April 2012

Hong Kong is added to the Youth Mobility Scheme

Whatever application you are looking to make, our experienced Immigration Team At Dirk Manstein Nicholls Lindsell and Harris can guide you through the process from beginning to end.