Warden Messages
23 September 2008
Warden Message from U.S. Embassy London
Important changes to UK visa regulations
In November 2008, the UK Border Agency (UKBA) will begin to implement a five-tier visa regulation system. Information on the new points-based system, and transitional arrangements for American citizen work permit holders and dependents already in the United Kingdom, can be found at the website of the UKBA (www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk).
Companies and individuals intending to employ American citizens, or other nationals from countries beyond the European Economic Area and Switzerland, are required to apply to the UKBA for a sponsorship license. The cut off date for applications is October 1, 2008. Potential sponsors missing the deadline will not be able to take advantage of the start date and will be delayed in the process. Information for employers can be found at: http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/employers/
Educational establishments must also apply for a sponsorship license. Even American education institutions that only offer short-term study abroad programs in their own premises in the United Kingdom to students who are enrolled in the United States, and who come to the United Kingdom for one or two semesters before returning home to finish their degree courses, must apply for a license from the UKBA. Information for education providers may also be found on the UKBA website.
Students and prospective students who intend to stay longer than six months, and those coming for less than six months but who wish to work while studying, are required to obtain a student or prospective student visa in advance of traveling to the United Kingdom. Failure to do so will result in the student or prospective student being refused entry to the United Kingdom. Students may apply on line at: http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/infs/ .
To register your details with the U.S. Embassy in London so that we may be able to contact you in an emergency, please visit https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/
To subscribe to our monthly newsletter for American Citizens, please send an email to londonacsnewsletter@state.gov .
If you feel that you have received this message in error, please let us know.
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