Advisory On Further Visa Extensions For Visitors In The UK Unable To Return Back Home Due To Coronavirus
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Thursday, May 28, 2020
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The Kenya High Commission in London is pleased to inform Kenyans in the UK that the UK Government has announced further extension of visas for visitors that will last until 31 July, 2020 and will apply to anyone whose leave expired after the 24 January and cannot return home. Overseas nationals who cannot return home due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will be able to extend their visa until the end of July 2020 so as to give them peace of mind that they can stay in the UK until they are able to return home safely.

The extension will last until 31 July and will apply to anyone whose leave expired after the 24 January and cannot leave the country because of travel restrictions or self-isolation. The extension is to help those who are unable to get home prior to 31 July, but however it is expected that those currently in the UK on temporary visas, such as visitor visas, should return home as soon as it is safe and possible to do so.

This announcement builds on the previous extension which will last until of 31 May, and it is meant to ensure that those people who are not able to leave the UK are not impacted by circumstances outside of their control.

It is important to note that a dedicated coronavirus immigration team is continuing to work with individuals to make the process as straightforward as possible. Anyone in this situation, who has not contacted them already, should contact the team via an online form to let them know that their visa has expired and they will be issued with an extension.

To help those who want to apply for visas to stay in the UK long-term, the Home Office is also extending the in-country switching provisions until 31 July. This will mean people can apply to switch into long-term routes whilst remaining in the UK. UKVI will continue to process applications as quickly as possible, however some applications may take longer than usual due to coronavirus related operational pressures.

In light of the current advice on self-isolation and social distancing, the Home Office is also waiving a number of requirements on visa sponsors, such as allowing non-EU nationals here under work or study routes to undertake their work or study from home.

Kenyans are encouraged to get in touch with the Home Office to regularise their stay in the UK and also ensure that they adhere to the guidelines communicated by the Government on preventive measures to keep everyone safe during this pandemic.

The welfare and wellbeing of Kenyans in the UK remain our key priority.

For further information, please contact us via email at info@kenyahighcom.org.uk or the duty officer at +44 7979 973 794.

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