New visa options in the UK

The UK has included new visa options in its new immigration rules.  These new visa options will be for those traveling in groups and for going to festivals or special events in Britain.  These visas will be available at a lower cost to applicants applying for one.  Special visas will also be made available for entertainers and professional athletes.  Special events would be the Olympics to be hosted in London in 2012 or the Edinburgh festival.

Gerry Sutcliffe who is the UK Minister for Sports who is looking forward to the addition of the new visas said "If we are going to make the UK the world's best cultural and sporting nation by 2012, then we need to make sure that talented sportspeople and entertainers from all over the world come here to take part in the many sporting events, festivals, and shows we have on offer.  Their presence makes our country a richer, more inspiring place to live and encourages more tourists to visit."

Liam Byrne, the UK Border and Immigration Minister said in a statement "The changes I am announcing will help create a fairer Britain with fair treatment for those who play by the rules, but tough action against those who break the law.  We want the UK to stay open and attractive for both business and visitors.  But at the same time, we are determined to deliver a system of border security which is among the most secure in the world."

www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en