The UK General Election Immigration Impacts

The UK General Election immigration Impacts: Crucial Implications for those on Family Visas

Individuals on family visas are understandably concerned about UK General Election Immigration Impacts and how the outcome may impact their status and future in the UK. The potential shifts in government after the election in July 2024, could bring about significant changes in immigration policies. Influencing everything from application processes, to eligibility criteria. At OTB Legal, we are dedicated to helping you navigate these uncertainties and understand what these political changes could mean for you and your family.

The Political Landscape and Immigration Policies

Each major political party in the UK has distinct stances on immigration, which could lead to vastly different outcomes for family visa holders and applicants. Here is a closer look at what each party might mean for you:

1. Conservative Party:

• Current Stance: Known for advocating stricter immigration controls and reducing overall immigration numbers.
• Impact on Family Visas: If the Conservatives remain in power, we could see increased financial requirements for sponsors, more rigorous eligibility criteria including new health tests for visa applicants, and heightened scrutiny of applications. The Conservatives have also indicated that they will be increasing all visa fees and increasing the Immigration Health Surcharge for students. This could make it more challenging for families to reunite in the UK. Finally, the Conservative manifesto implies that if flights to Rwanda are blocked by the European Court of Human Rights, then the UK may withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights. This may reduce the remedies available to Applicants in the event their applications are refused, or applications do not fit neatly within the immigration rules.

2. Labour Party:

• Current Stance: The Labour Party's 2024 manifesto outlines plans for a reformed immigration system emphasising fairness, humane treatment, and economic contribution. Labour aims to create a balanced system that addresses economic needs while ensuring all applicants are treated justly. Specific details on family visas are not explicitly mentioned in the manifesto. The Labour party have also committed to reducing net migration although have not specified whether this will impact family visas directly.
• Impact on Family Visas: Although the manifesto does not explicitly detail changes to family visas, Labour's broader commitment to a fair immigration system could imply adjustments to financial requirements and other conditions. Under Conservative plans, the financial threshold for sponsoring family visas is set to rise significantly, from £29,000 as of April 2024 to £34,500 later in the year and eventually to £38,700 by early 2025. It is unclear whether Labour will go ahead with the proposed increases to the financial requirement.

3. Liberal Democrats:

• Current Stance: The Liberal Democrats' 2024 manifesto emphasises a compassionate and effective immigration system that treats everyone with dignity and respect. They aim to end the Conservatives' "Hostile Environment" policy and invest in resources to combat smuggling and trafficking. They plan to overhaul immigration rules to make them simpler, more transparent, and fairer. The party advocates for policies that allow asylum seekers to work if they have been waiting for a decision for more than three months, and they aim to establish safe and legal routes for refugees to enter the UK.
• The Liberal Democrats UK General Election Immigration Impacts on Family Visas: Although not explicitly detailed in their manifesto, the Liberal Democrats have commented on their stance on family visas. They plan to reverse the Conservatives' increase in the minimum income requirement for family visas to prevent families from being torn apart by financial thresholds. Currently, the financial requirement for family visas is set to increase significantly.

4. Reform Party:

• Current Stance: The Reform Party's 2024 manifesto emphasises strict immigration control, primarily focusing on curbing illegal immigration. Their plans include withdrawing the UK from the European Convention on Human Rights, establishing a new department specifically for immigration, and freezing non-essential legal migration. This approach aims to significantly reduce overall immigration numbers and enforce stricter controls on who can enter and remain in the UK.
• The Reform Party's UK General Election Immigration Impacts on Family Visas: While the Reform Party's manifesto does not explicitly detail changes to family visas, there have been comments suggesting that their strict stance on immigration could impact family reunification policies. As mentioned previously, the financial requirement for sponsoring family visas is set to increase significantly, from £29,000 as of April 2024, with further increments expected. Although not directly mentioned, it is likely that the Reform Party would support maintaining or even tightening these financial thresholds to limit the number of family visas granted, aligning with their broader immigration goals.

How to Prepare for the Upcoming Changes

At OTB Legal, we understand the anxiety that comes with political uncertainties. Here are some steps you can take to stay prepared:

1. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest political developments and party policies on immigration.

2. Seek Expert Advice: Consult with our immigration experts at OTB Legal to understand how potential policy changes could affect your situation.

Conclusion

The outcome of the upcoming UK general elections could significantly impact family immigration policies. The results will determine whether the process becomes more accessible or more challenging for individuals on family visas. At OTB Legal, our commitment is to provide you with the most current and relevant information to navigate these changes successfully. We are here to support your immigration journey, ensuring that you and your family are well-prepared for any eventuality.

At OTB Legal, we specialise in navigating the complexities of immigration law to help you reunite with your family in the UK. Book a free consultation with us today to discuss your situation and find out how we can assist you in choosing the right family visa for your needs.