Over the last few weeks we’ve seen several visa centres across the world close, so it was hardly surprising on Friday when it was announced that all international visa centres were closing for the foreseeable future. That announcement was followed a few hours later by news that the commercial provider operating UK biometric centres was also closing. While these developments were expected, it has left people with a number of questions and uncertainties. Here’s our summary of their position:

Applicants from abroad who have attended biometric appointments

The Home Office have advised that all decision making will be delayed due to the shutdown. There will also be issues for people awaiting the return of their passport as this would usually be collected from a visa centre, but they can contact the visa centre to arrange for a courier service.

At present there is no guidance on what will happen to applicants who receive their passports after their 30 day entry permit has expired, so it may be necessary to apply for a new vignette once restrictions are lifted.

Applicants from abroad who have not attended appointments

Anyone who has submitted an application, but has not yet attended an appointment will be unable to continue with their application at this time. It will not be considered invalid, but they will need to wait for visa centres to re-open to continue the process.

For visa applications, the key date is when an application is submitted and paid for online so anyone in this scenario should not need to provide updated evidence when their case eventually progresses but it may be worthwhile doing so to show they continue to meet the immigration rules.

Applicants from abroad who have not submitted the online application yet

It is still possible to apply online and then wait to attend a biometric appointment. While many people will choose to wait, so they can give a realistic travel date, there will be some circumstances where it is sensible to apply online now. Anyone in this scenario should get legal advice about the timing of their application.

Applicants inside the UK who have attended biometric appointments

As we understand it, applications will continue to be processed. However delays are likely. Anyone with a pending visa application can remain in the UK, and continue to work, while the application is being processed regardless of how long that takes.

They should not travel outside the UK until a decision has been made on their application as this will withdraw the application.

Applicants inside the UK who have not attended appointments

Individuals who have applied online but have not attended appointments are also able to remain in the UK and continue to work.

They should not travel outside the UK until a decision has been made on their application as this will withdraw the application.

Applicants who have not submitted their applications

Although the Home Office have announced guidance allowing people with expiring visas to apply for a temporary extension, this is aimed at those wishing to leave the UK. Anyone who is currently inside the UK and wants to remain here, should apply as normal to protect their rights.

Summary

There is no timeline for visa centres, inside or outside the UK, to re-open. International centres are likely to open on a staggered basis as countries lift restrictions but it could be some time before normal operations resume. In the meantime, anyone with or applying for a UK visa, should carefully consider their options and should take advice on protecting their position.