New visa rules for non-EU tourists planned by the British government have come in for protests as ‘racist’, ‘anti-poor’ and ‘unfair’.
LONDON: New visa rules for non-EU tourists planned by the British government have come in for protests as ‘racist’, ‘anti-poor’ and ‘unfair’.
For the first time in 35 years the government wants to halve the time that a tourist can stay in the UK from six to three months.
It also plans to bring in a bond system for overseas visitors who are coming to Britain to visit relatives and friends. While they have not stated the amount the government is proposing, media speculation suggests it will be about £1,000 per person or more.
“The government is trying to deter people to come for family visits. This is unfair,” said Habib Rehman, the chief executive of the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants.
Campaigners called the proposals “unfair” on poorer families. The Conservatives attacked the plan as a “headline grabbing gimmick”.
The government defended the bond, which has led to a lot of criticism, saying it is “not for everyone – but where we think there’s a risk”.
Immigration groups however suggest it will definitely be used when issuing visas to visitors from the Indian subcontinent making it a racist move. EU visitors do not face visa restrictions.
“The visa authorities always consider people from India want to live here and not go back no matter how much better their lives may be back home,” said Tanuja Patel who is planning her daughters wedding for next summer.
“I would like my relatives to come from Surat for the marriage but I can’t afford to shell out so much money for the bonds,” she said.
The proposals are aimed, claims the government at those who deliberately overstay or work illegally in the UK. Liam Byrne, Immigration Minister defended the proposals arguing that they were nothing sinister and they were simply “updating the visa system which is 35 years out of date”.
Tourists going to the rest of EU may be offered a cut price and time-limited visa to visit the UK to encourage group travel, the consultation document says. The proposals are also considering special one-off visa category for sporting fixtures or cultural events.
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