United Kingdom changes regulations for stay extensions

As of April 6, 2015, Vincentians wishing to extend their stay in the United Kingdom beyond the six months visa free period will now be required to pay a financial contribution towards the National Health Services (NHS), a move that will give them the same access to the NHS as a permanent UK resident.{{more}}

According to a release from the British High Commission, the UK Parliament has recently approved regulations for an Immigration Health Surcharge, which was introduced on April 6, 2015. The surcharge will mean that non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals who come to the UK to work, study or join family for a time limited period of more than six months, or apply to extend their stay when they are in the United Kingdom will have to pay this financial contribution to the NHS.

The document further states that the health surcharge will apply to applications where payment is made on or after April 6. The fee will be set at £200 a year for temporary migrants and £150 a year for students.

Vincentians enjoys visa free access to the United Kingdom for a period up to six months.