UK IMMIGRATION NEWS

Borders, Citizenship & Immigration bill to be enacted soon

Wednesday, 22 July 2009

The UK proposed new Borders, Citizenship & Immigration bill cleared its final stage in the House of Commons this week after receiving support from both major opposition parties.

The bill, heralding the most wide-spread immigration changes in six decades, will now be put before the House of Lords who may grant final approval as early as 21st July, thereby allowing it to be enacted before Parliament enters its summer recess.

All parties have supported the major premise of the bill, which will see the period of residence in the to qualify for citizenship extended to eight years from the current five. Those with family connections to the UK (eg through a spouse) will need to reside in the UK for five years, up from the current three. In all cases, applicants can cut this period by two years by performing approved charity work.

In anticipation of the changes, Immigration Minister, Mr Phil Woolas stated: "That makes a reality of the pledge to ensure that those who wish to become British citizens earn the right."

The government has however agreed to implement the proposed changes over a longer period of time with no retrospective clauses. Once enacted, the new citizenship rules will not come into effect until at least July 2011, meaning of those already resident in the UK will be able to apply under the existing rules.

If you are interested in UK Visas, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to the UK.