Parts of the current UK visa system will be relaxed and simplified from April 2015, in order to make Britain more attractive to business.
Although Aussies will still need the relevant visa to visit the UK, the new visit visa system will reduce the current 15 types of UK visitor visa categories to just four, explains Breytenbachs Immigration Consultants.
The reforms come in light of “continuous complaints from British business leaders that the current visit visa process is too cumbersome and a hindrance to economic growth,” say Breytenbachs.
What do these immanent changes mean for the prospective visitor to the UK?
Business travellers
Visitors to the UK will be able to combine business and holiday trips without having to get two separate visas.
According to Immigration Manager at 1st Contact Visas John Dunn, this change will reduce red tape and possible delays. “While applications will be simpler, it is worth noting that all of the original entry criteria still apply,” he said.
Performing artists
People employed in the performing arts will be able to take part in or host productions more easily thanks to a new visa category.
Visitors wanting to get married in the UK
Those seeking to tie the knot will be able to apply for a specific UK visa to do just that. But before you consider eloping, bear in mind that the visa will have no relation to the current partner visas and will not grant you the right to remain in the UK, warns Dunn.
ALSO SEE: New UK Visa for Australian migrants in the works
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