Q. How & When do I apply for a UK Visa?
Most UK Visa applications (Ancestry, Working Holiday, Right to Abode, Spouse etc) will be processed within six weeks in most Commonwealth countries, but that is not a guarantee. Each individual UK High Commission or Embassy will usually have different processing times, be sure to check with your nearest one. Note that applications for a work permit under the Highly Skilled Migrant Program can take several months to be assessed. Visas granted often have a 'use before' date so be careful not to apply too early (a year ahead) for your UK Visa - but don't leave it too late either! It is not normally recommended to purchase your airline tickets until you have received your UK visa if this is something that will effect whether you go to the UK or not.
Q. What are the recent Changes to the Working Holiday Maker
Visa (WHMV)?
On the 20th June 2003, the British Home office announced exciting new changes to the Working Holiday Maker Scheme.
A summary of the changes made is as follows:
- Extension of the upper age limit on the Working Holiday Visa from 27 years inclusive to 30 years inclusive.
- Removal of restrictions on type and duration of work undertaken in the UK.
- Holders of a UK Working Holiday Visa now have an option of switching to work permit employment after 12 months, upon meeting certain criteria.
Current holders of UK Working Holiday Visas benefit from the lifting of work restrictions and ability to switch to work permit employment effective immediately. The changes for new applications are effective as of 25th August 2003.
Q. I need employer sponsorship to work in the UK.
If you are not eligible for a UK Visa, nor have an EU passport, you will likely need to be sponsored by a UK employer who will apply for a work permit on your behalf. This is possible in some industries, whereas in others it is highly unlikely.
Q. I am over the working holiday age limit of 30 years. Can I work in the UK?
If you are over 31 years of age you are unfortunately over the age limit for application for a UK Working Holiday Visa. However there may be other types of UK visas for which you are eligible to apply that also allow employment.
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Skilled Workers 
