Visas: Sponsorship scheme for foreign visitors

Posted on 30 June 2008

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UK workers failing to ensure foreign family members visiting from abroad abide by the law may face sanctions, the government has said.

Under planned changes to the UK visa system, residents must act as sponsor to their visitors to vouch for their behaviour and make sure they leave the country within the required time frame.

Those acting in breach of regulations may be banned from having visitors from abroad in the future, while a financial penalty or imprisonment are other possibilities.

Border and immigration minister Liam Byrne said it "made sense" to tighten visa restrictions, with a points-based selective migration scheme set to be introduced.

He added: "The changes I am announcing today will help create a fairer Britain with fair treatment for those who play by the rules, but tough action against those who break the law.

"We want the UK to stay open and attractive for both business and visitors, but at the same time we are determined to deliver a system of border security which is among the most secure in the world."

The Home Office document A points based system: Making migration work for Britain outlines the government's plans for selective migration.

Category: General News

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