We’d like to wish all our Clients a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! We look forward to working with you in 2008!

This newsletter contains information on the immigration changes, tax returns, our Ski Week offer and more!

Immigration Update:

Introduction of the new Points Based System

There has been much coverage in the media as well as information from Immigration Companies lately on the Government’s introduction of the new Australian type Points Based System for Immigration into the UK. This is due to come into effect in early 2008.

Despite media hype, this is not the end of Immigration into the UK for non-EU members. We have outlined below some of the key points of the system that is being proposed.

The new system aims to simplify what is currently a very complex system and enables the Government to have better control by counting people in and out of the country and requiring all foreign nationals to carry ID cards. The Government is also working to ensure that Inpats settle more successfully into the UK.

Key aspects of the new system:

• It will not totally replace the existing system. It is intended that 60% of what is happening today will go forward into the future.
• There will be a staged introduction over a planned 2-year period; there will be no overnight changes.
• The broad categories are:
• Tier 1: Highly Skilled Migrant Program and sub categories.
• Tier 2: Work Permits and sub categories.
• Tier 3: Unskilled workers. This Tier is not currently being developed. This Tier does not include the 2-year Working Holiday Maker.
• Tier 4: Student Visas.
• Tier 5: Youth Mobility Visa which will eventually replace the current 2 Year Working Holiday Scheme.

This is a simplified overview. If you require more information please give us a call on 0845 644 1871 and one of our Immigration Advisers will be happy to provide more detailed information relevant to your situation.

Tax Returns

Remember the 31 January 2008 deadline!

To prevent any penalties, interest and surcharges on late returns and liabilities, you need to have filed your Self Assessment Tax Return with HM Revenue and Customs no later than 31 January 2008. All possible tax liabilities will also need to be paid by that date. Any overpayments of tax can also be claimed through your Self Assessment Tax Return.

Don’t panic - we can help you! Contact us as soon as possible to ensure we are able to file your return on your behalf by the set dates. Call Smooth Tax on 0845 644 1871.

FPS Umbrella

You could be just 4 seconds away from Smarter Pay!

Using our FPS Umbrella service you could make up to 40% in tax savings by processing business expenses. For almost 20 years we have been providing payment solutions to temporary workers and their recruitment companies. By working with us you can rest assured that FPS Umbrella is the smartest way to work on temporary contract in the UK.

FPS Member benefits:

• 4 second registration process
• Increased net pay over traditional agency payroll
• Make up to 40% in tax savings by processing business expenses
• One tax code avoiding unnecessary overpayment of tax
• Flat weekly fee - no charge for weeks not worked
• Inclusive Business insurance
• No company or Director responsibilities
• Access to trained membership advisors to resolve your questions quickly.

To join today freephone: 0800 634 4848 or visit www.fpsumbrella.com.

Opening times over Christmas

• We are closed on December 25th and 26th and January 1st.
• We are open as usual on December 24th, 27th, 28th and 31st from 9am until 5pm.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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