2006 – A Tough Year for non-EU Residents

To say that 2006 was a difficult year for non-European migrants wishing to work or settle in the UK would be an understatement.
Despite figures released in February, showing that over 350,000 Britons were leaving the UK each year to live abroad, the immigration rules have continued to be tightened.
In March the Home Office released details [...]

Does Slavery Still Exist in the UK?

With the UK Government planning to apologise to Africa for its contribution to the 19th century slavery trade, Immigration Matters asks whether workers closer to home are being treated like slaves in 2006.

‘Slavery in the UK’, an article published in the Independent (27th December 2006) tells the story of Somalatha, a Sri Lankan domestic worker [...]

One in Ten British Citizens is Living Overseas

A BBC report, released this week, examined the numbers of Brits leaving the UK, based on studies by the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR).
The report suggests:
· At least 5.5m British-born people live abroad, which is almost one in 10 of British citizens
· 107,000 Brits left the UK last year, which is 2000 people per [...]

Yes, You Will Need to Take the Life in the UK Test

Just when you think you are going to be able to stay in the UK permanently, new settlement rules may cause delay to your dream. Earlier this year the Home Office increased the qualification period from 4 to 5 years for work permit holders applying for permanent residence, now they are introducing a new UK [...]

Guide 2 Care Conference

GUIDE2CARE CONFERENCE (WORCESTER 12TH DECEMBER 2006)
Charles Kelly will be speaking at the Guide2Care Conference and will be available afterwards for questions.
For further details, see www.guide2care.com

Migration Advisory Committee – Consultation Paper

The Government announced in July 2006 that it would consult on establishing a Migration Advisory Committee to provide independent advice on migration, including on where shortage in skills and labour should be met by migration.

They are not selecting members yet. They are still discussing and gathering ideas. Based on the responses they get, they will [...]

BBC Reporter Obtains Fake Passports from 20 EU Countries

Whilst the UK government makes life harder for those wishing to stay in the UK legally, it seems that coming here illegally has never been easier.
BBC’s Panorama reporter, Shahida Tulaganov, paid between £250 and £1500 for 20 fake EU passports from dealers all over Europe. The first passport was bought from a Ukrainian dealer in [...]

British Test for Migrants Applying for Settlement

The Home Office will introduce a Language and British Test for migrants planning to settle in the UK from 2nd April 2007.
The new rule requires applicants for ‘indefinite leave to remain’ to prove they have sufficient knowledge of English language and ‘life in the UK’ to qualify for settlement.
The clampdown is the latest in [...]