Visa Fees for Commonwealth soldiers

The Home Secretary has been urged to waive Visa Fees for those who wish to remain in the UK after their service in the British Army has ended. The Cross Party group of 133 MP's has asked Sajid Javid to recognise the "the nations respect" for the men and women who have formerly served this country.

 

At present an individual with a spouse and two children faces fees of upto £10,000 to be allowed to settle in the UK.

 

Approximately five hundred former Commonwealth personnel, per annum, ae faced with these costs. In the event individuals cannot pay, or for those whose applications have failed, can face deportation from the UK.

 

MP Richard Graham MP suggested the public would feel the fees were "somewhat mean". He further commented that he had the support of both the Defence & Foreign Secretaries. 

 

He further added, "These men and women are willing to put their life on the line for our country and the current situation doesn't reflect our and the nation's respect for them."

 

At present serving Commonwealth personnel can be accompanied by their families and they are exempt from immigration ­controls. Upon their ceasing to serve, that exemption is removed and they may not pursue employment or claim benefits or register with a Doctor.

 

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILTR) can be requested by veterans with in excess of four years of service. Visa application fees currently stand at £2,389 per person.

 

The British Army currently employs 200 Commonwealth personnel and the Government hopes to boost that number to 1,250 in order to raise staffing levels.