Working holiday makers in the UK no longer able to switch to a highly skilled visa.
12 March 2008
From this month Australians, South Africans and New Zealanders will begin to feel the effects of the overhaul of the UK visa system. Responding to the massive increase in immigration seen in the last decade, the UK government is introducing an Australian points system where applicants will be categorized into five tiers.
The first tier which applies to HSMP candidates has just become operational. In effect those still waiting to travel to the UK will notice little difference as there have been few changes to the necessary criteria required.
It is those who are already in the UK on a working holidaymaker visa wanting to switch to the HSMP who will feel the impact.
Up until now many have opted for the WHM visa as a quick and cheap route into the UK, expecting to be able to make an ‘in country’ switch to a HSMP when and if circumstances allowed. However from now on they will have to pack their bags and fly home for up to 6 weeks to gain their HSMP visa approval.
Many of those intending to apply for HSMP status were hoping to develop their UK career. Recruitment specialist, Marie Blackwell says employees and their employers will be affected.
Because these candidates will now be required to return to their country of origin for the application, it will be necessary in many cases to terminate their assignment for this time and these candidates are filling essential roles for UK employers.
For those affected by the visa changes, the advice is don’t panic. With proper planning you can minimise any affect on your career.
- Speak to a well qualified immigration consultant to make sure that you will satisfy the HSMP criteria - this will save you a lot of time and money.
- If you are eligible and still want to go ahead with the application you need to accept that you will probably be away from the UK for a period of up to 6 weeks.
- Budget for this.
- Keep your employer and recruitment consultant informed so they can organise their staffing accordingly. They will value your thoughtfulness.
- An ideal solution if your employer does not want to lose you is to look into the possibility of a work permit.
- The HSMP application is complex and requires back up documents to prove work experience and income. Ensure that you have all relevant documents before you leave the UK.
If you can plan and manage the transition it will be a lot less stressful and inconvenient says Marie Blackwell,
Look on the bright side, up to six weeks away from work to go home and visit friends and family is something lots of us always promise ourselves and never get round to enjoying; now is your chance!
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