Sponsor Registration update

As we moved into 2009, we noticed that there was growing interest from companies seeking help to understand and comply with the new Tier 2 Sponsor Registration. Companies who employ those working on a Work Permit and need to renew their right to work, or who are planning to employ staff from abroad have to be registered as an A-rating with the UK Border Agency. Their registration needs to be in place before they apply for extension to current work permits or apply to employ a foreign worker. Failure to obtain an A-rating can result in the employee not being able to work and having to return home until the registration process is complete.

Smooth Group holds regular seminars on Sponsor Registration and changes to the UK immigration system to assist employers. We also offer services that can directly assist with their registration process.

• In-House Training
  Training provided at your UK site for groups of up to 15 members of staff. This 3 hour training session will provide a sound grounding in the immigration regulations and how it affects the company.
  
  
• Sponsor Application Support
  Using our expertise and extensive immigration experience, our Sponsor Application Support steers you through your application process to avoid unnecessary delays caused by an incorrect submission.
  
  
• On-site Immigration Support
  Address ‘soft checks’ and ad-hoc enquiries from the BIA with the support of a qualified Immigration Advisor.

For more details about upcoming seminars and Employer services please contact Rebecca Hall on 07870 250 854.

Further UK immigration changes

With the launch of Tier 2 in November we saw the introduction of the latest Shortage Occupation list dated 11 Nov 08. The new Points Based System is designed to be more flexible and move with the skill shortages in the UK.

The third and final stage of the reformation of the UK Immigration system is moving forward and proposals to change the Path to Citizenship is on the table. The new system will allow an initial temporary residence i.e. for an Economic Migrant under Tier 1 or 2. After the 5 year temporary period the migrant can apply for Probationary citizenship. From Probationary citizenship the migrant is able to move to British citizenship of Permanent Residence status. The proposal also includes a Labour Residency Test for Ancestral Visa applicants.

“The second reading of the Bill has been postponed to Wednesday 11 February.” - Please look out for an update in our February Newsletter.

Appeals update

People who might have been refused Leave to Remain after applying to the Home Office for a Post Study Work visa should not despair; there's still hope! Just the other week one student who, having been denied after submitting their Tier 1 Post Study application, had the decision overturned at an appeal hearing. Originally the Home Office said there was insufficient proof from the college to show the post graduate diploma qualification and institution of studies met the necessary requirements. We helped the individual to get the correct documentation together and represented him at the Asylum and Immigration Tribunal in his appeal, as part of our Level 3 Immigration service. The appeal was allowed which means his original application was correct and now will be granted two years post study work visa.

Update for travellers

USA: If you are travelling to the US then since January 12, 2009 it became mandatory for Visa Waiver Travelers to have an approved Travel Authorisation before departing to the United States. With the new Electronic System for Travel Authorisation all Visa Waiver travelers must pre-register their planned U.S. visit and be approved to travel to the United States. A Travel Authorisation is valid for 2 years at the time.

Switzerland: Switzerland is now a Schengen country. If you have needed a schengen visa to travel to Europe, you will also now need one if you are traveling to Switzerland.

Smooth Group Limited
1 Dock Offices, Surrey Quays, London, SE16 2XU
Tel: 0845 644 1871 Email: info@mysmoothgroup.com
www.mysmoothgroup.com
OISC Registered No: F200300158

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