Home Office guidance for those unable to return to China during the Coronavirus outbreak

The Home Office has today issued guidance explaining how they will deal with the immigration status of those who are currently unable to return to China.

Chinese nationals who have complied with immigration conditions until the outbreak of the virus and whose leave expired after 24^th January 2020  will automatically have their leave to remain extended until 31^st March 2020. This will also apply to anyone whose leave will expire between now and 30^th March 2020.

There is a helpline that can be contacted free of charge on 0800 678 1768 to request a new biometric residence document with a revised date.

The guidance also confirms that Chinese nationals wishing to switch from Tier 2 Intra-Company Transfer status can switch into Tier 2 ( General) without leaving the UK if their leave expired/will expire between 24^th January and 30^th March 2020.

Please contact us if you have questions on the above or on any of the issues covered by the guidance.