Everybody wants to go on vacation, but when you are a sponsored worker with a pending visa application, you need to travel. However, the rules of UK immigration have radically altered over the past few years and this is the case with workers waiting for their visa approval and who are going on holiday. This article takes you through the new regulations for sponsored workers, travel restraining, and how to prepare for that trip.
Is It Possible to Travel While My Visa Application Is In Progress?
Until 6 October 2021, it was plain: if you had asked for your passport to be returned when you were applying for a visa, the application would be refunded. This was explicit in the fact that workers couldn’t leave to wait for a decision.
But since 6 October 2021, the parameters have evolved. With the new policy, if you travel outside the CTA and your visa application is open, your application will be automatically rejected.
The Common Travel Area includes:
- The UK
- Republic of Ireland
- Channel Islands
- Isle of Man
What Happens if I Travel Outside the CTA?
If you leave the CTA while your visa application is still pending, it’s treated as though your application was canceled. You’ll lose your application and will not be able to re-enter the UK on that application. Here’s what could happen:
- If you’ve already completed your biometric appointment, the visa application fee won’t be refunded, but the Immigration Health Surcharge will be.
- If your visa is still valid when you return, you may be allowed to enter the UK.
- If your visa has expired while you were away, you will likely be denied entry.
What About Traveling Between Jobs?
It’s common for workers to take a break between jobs and plan a short holiday before starting a new role. Here’s what you should know if you’re changing employers or waiting for a new sponsor:
- Short Holidays: If you are planning to switch sponsors and take a holiday in between jobs, a brief trip should not affect your application for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) as a Skilled Worker.
- Returning to the UK: If you are traveling after your current sponsor has ended your employment, the Home Office may ask questions about your re-entry plans. In this case, you should be prepared to show that you have a job offer or a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to prove that you plan to apply for a visa on your return.
Can I Apply for a Visa Renewal Before Traveling?
If your visa is close to expiring and you plan to travel, you may want to apply for a visa renewal before you leave. Here’s what you need to know:
- Visa Renewal Timing: You can apply for a visa renewal up to 3 months before your current visa expires.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Your employer needs to provide you with a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to apply for the visa. Be sure that the CoS is still valid when you apply, as an expired CoS will result in an invalid application.
If your visa is still valid when you leave, you can apply for a renewal and re-enter the UK on your new visa.
How Long Do Visa Applications Take?
The processing time for Skilled Worker visa applications varies, so it’s important to apply early, especially if you’re planning travel. Here are the time frames you need to consider:
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): If you need to get a new CoS, it usually takes 18 weeks to obtain. However, you can use the priority service to get a decision within 5 working days (for an additional fee of £200).
- Visa Processing Time: The standard processing time for leave-to-remain applications is about 8 weeks. You can also use priority services for faster processing:
- Priority Service: 5 working days for an extra £500.
- Super Priority Service: 24 hours for an extra £800.
Can I Book a Biometric Appointment Quickly?
Booking a biometric appointment is part of the visa process. These appointments are essential for completing the visa application, and it can sometimes be hard to get an appointment at short notice. However, by paying an additional fee, you may be able to secure an appointment slot sooner. Fees typically range from £70 to £199.
For sponsored workers, traveling during a visa application process can be tricky. If you leave the UK while your application is pending, your visa application will be automatically withdrawn. To avoid complications, make sure you plan your travel around your visa application timeline.
How Law and Visas Can Help?
At Law and Visas, our team of expert immigration consultants is here to make your travel to Ireland for business straightforward and successful. Whether you’re applying for a Business Visa or an Immigrant Investor Visa, we handle every step—from preparing your application to gathering the required documents.
Our immigration lawyer consultants and Lawyers ensure that your application meets the highest standards, with no details missed. We’ll also keep you informed throughout the process, coordinating with the immigration office or embassy on your behalf.
Law and Visas has a strong record of helping clients secure the visas and permits they need for international travel. Call us today at +234 812 5505 986 to learn how we can assist you.
