UK Introduces Fee Waiver and Visa Overhaul for Bereaved Foreign Nationals

The UK government is set to introduce new rules allowing foreign nationals, who have lost a partner and are struggling financially, to apply for a fee waiver when seeking settlement in the country.

Currently, individuals applying for settlement after the death of their British partner must pay a hefty fee of GBP 2,885, regardless of their financial situation.

Fee Waiver Introduced for Bereaved Partners

Seema Malhotra, the UK’s Indian-origin Minister for Migration and Citizenship, announced in Parliament that the government will waive this fee starting October 9, 2024.

The change aims to provide a “fairer and more compassionate approach” for those facing severe financial challenges during a time of grief.

“Losing a loved one is a deep and unimaginable pain, often worsened by financial hardship,” Malhotra said. The new rule will allow widows, widowers, and dependent children to apply for a fee waiver if they face destitution, enabling them to settle and continue their lives in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria for the Waiver

Partners on family visas who meet the destitution criteria can apply for the fee waiver. Eligible partners must have married or been in a relationship with someone who was:

• A British citizen
• A holder of indefinite leave to remain in the UK
• From the European Union (EU), Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein, with pre-settled status

Additionally, bereaved partners of Armed Forces members, Gurkhas, or Hong Kong military veterans (discharged before July 1997) can also benefit from the waiver.

New Visa Processes for Diplomatic Visitors

In addition to the fee waiver, the UK is overhauling its diplomatic visa system. Malhotra announced the introduction of a new “Diplomatic Visa Arrangement” (DVA) as part of efforts to modernize UK border controls with digital pre-travel checks. The existing Diplomatic Visa Waivers (DVW) will be phased out.

Also Read: UK Govt Increases Financial Requirements for Student Visas

Diplomatic Visa Arrangements to Replace DVWs

Under the new DVA, diplomatic passport holders from countries currently benefiting from DVWs will still enjoy smooth access to the UK. Applicants will use a simplified process, with no fees or fingerprint submission required. This arrangement ensures that diplomatic travel remains efficient and hassle-free.

Launch of VIP Delegate Visa

The UK will introduce a new visa product, the “VIP Delegate Visa,” for official delegations accompanying foreign Heads of State and government ministers on official visits.

This bespoke visa will issue up to 20 permits for government officials accompanying Heads of State and 10 for those accompanying government ministers. Like the DVA, the application fees and fingerprint submission requirements will be waived.

These changes aim to align the UK’s diplomatic visa processes with those of international partners, streamlining diplomatic travel while maintaining security measures.

Also Read: UK to Introduce New £10 ETA Fee for US and European Travellers

Conclusion

These new measures reflect the UK’s commitment to fairness and compassion, particularly for foreign nationals dealing with significant personal and financial loss.

With the introduction of both the settlement fee waiver and new diplomatic visa processes, the UK is enhancing support for those facing hardship while also facilitating smoother diplomatic visits.