Post by Deleted on Feb 14, 2016 8:09:48 GMT 7
Tighter and more expensive visa regulations for Australians travelling to the UK could have a long-term impact on the close relationship between the two countries, according to officials and members of the British Prime Minister's own party.
From April 6, Australians staying longer than six months in the UK will have to pay $400 (200 GBP) for the 'free' National Health Service (NHS).
Australians wanting to consider permanent residency in the UK will have to be earning a minimum of $70,000 (35,000 GBP) to be permitted to stay.
The new laws, announced several years ago, come into effect in a matter of weeks and have faced a fresh round of criticism.
But new recommendations from the British Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) have sparked even more outrage with warnings from one official that Britain is sleepwalking into a situation where the once tight relationship with Australia will be permanently damaged.
The committee has recommended to the UK Home Office that Australians on Tier 2 working visas will face a $2,000 (1,000 GBP) annual fee. It does not specify if the employee or the company should be encouraged to pick up the bill.
Continues:
www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-14/uk-australia-visa-restrictions-could-impact-relations/7166336
From April 6, Australians staying longer than six months in the UK will have to pay $400 (200 GBP) for the 'free' National Health Service (NHS).
Australians wanting to consider permanent residency in the UK will have to be earning a minimum of $70,000 (35,000 GBP) to be permitted to stay.
The new laws, announced several years ago, come into effect in a matter of weeks and have faced a fresh round of criticism.
But new recommendations from the British Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) have sparked even more outrage with warnings from one official that Britain is sleepwalking into a situation where the once tight relationship with Australia will be permanently damaged.
The committee has recommended to the UK Home Office that Australians on Tier 2 working visas will face a $2,000 (1,000 GBP) annual fee. It does not specify if the employee or the company should be encouraged to pick up the bill.
Continues:
www.abc.net.au/news/2016-02-14/uk-australia-visa-restrictions-could-impact-relations/7166336
