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Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill
NMIL Training Update: Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill
The Border Security, Asylum and Immigration Bill introduces several key changes, covering border security, asylum, immigration, and crime prevention.
Key Points:
🔹 Border Security: Establishes the Border Security Commander role, expands immigration officers’ powers, and introduces harsh penalties for assisting illegal migration.
🔹 New Offences: Criminalises supplying items (e.g., mobile phones, boats) for immigration crime, with penalties of up to 14 years. Also introduces offences related to collecting information for illegal crossings.
🔹 Increased Enforcement: Immigration officers gain powers to search, seize, and access information from items like mobile phones. New biometric data collection measures are also introduced.
🔹 Asylum and Immigration: Repeals the Safety of Rwanda Act 2024 and key parts of the Illegal Migration Act 2023, including the duty to remove asylum seekers. However, some restrictive detention and modern slavery provisions remain.
🔹 Serious Crime Prevention: New offences for possession of tools used in serious crime (e.g., 3D firearm templates, smuggling vehicles).
🔹 Retrospective Fees Fix: Addresses Home Office errors in illegally charging fees without statutory power.
What Does This Mean?
The Bill won’t stop small boat crossings but signals a shift from previous extreme policies. While new enforcement measures are introduced, the government’s approach appears more balanced than in recent years.
Stay informed with NMIL Training to understand how these changes impact immigration law and practice.
22 July 2024 Labour Supports Skilled Worker Route
Labour has committed to supporting the Skilled Worker route, which allows UK employers to tap into the global talent pool. The party plans to request that the Migration Advisory Committee review the implications of increasing the Skilled Worker salary threshold to £38,700. However, the restriction on care workers’ dependants will remain in place.
17 July 2024: Understanding eVisas: Impact and Steps for Implementation
Introduction:
The Home Office’s introduction of eVisas marks a significant shift towards a digitalised immigration system, aiming for greater efficiency and accessibility. As we navigate this transition, uncertainties abound regarding the rollout and practical implications of eVisas.
Overview of eVisas:
From 2025, eVisas will replace physical documents like biometric residence permits (BRPs) and entry vignettes, digitising the proof of immigration status for millions of individuals in the UK.
Who is Affected:
Affected groups include those with pending BRP expirations and individuals under Appendix EU status. With up to four million people potentially needing action, timely preparation is crucial to avoid disruptions.
Steps to Obtain an eVisa:
- Create a UKVI account: Begin by providing personal details and linking a BRP number or immigration application number.
- Link eVisa to account: Upon account creation, users can link their eVisa, typically available post-application approval.
- Complete identity check: Utilise the UK Immigration ID Check app for biometric verification and upload of relevant documents.
- View and verify eVisa: Confirm accuracy of personal details and immigration status once the eVisa is accessible.
- Link travel document: Associate the passport or ID card to the eVisa for seamless travel and status verification.
Implications and Challenges:
While some have reported smooth transitions with eVisas, challenges persist with account setup, profile accuracy, and communication gaps. Concerns arise over the adequacy of alternatives for proving status post-BRP expiry and managing updates effectively.
Conclusion:
As the eVisa rollout unfolds, clarity on implementation specifics and contingency measures becomes paramount. Addressing these uncertainties promptly will ensure a smoother transition for affected individuals, safeguarding their rights and access in the UK.