For those who continue to remain grounded in the UK as a result of travel restrictions caused by COVID-19 or due to testing positive for Coronavirus, the UK Home Office’s ‘exceptional assurance’ policy continues to remain in place.
Under the latest version of this policy, if you intend to leave the UK but have not yet been able to do so and you have a visa or leave that expires on or prior to 30 June 2021, you may request additional, temporary time to stay in the UK. The latest policy extends the previous deadline of 30 April 2021.
An exceptional assurance must be requested via email to the Home Office and you will be asked to present documents to show why you cannot yet leave the UK, such as evidence of a cancelled flight booking or a positive Coronavirus test result.
It is important to note that those who are granted an exceptional assurance are expected to return to their home country on or prior to the assurance expiry date. Exceptional assurances do not facilitate travel, other than to return home.
If you are concerned about your status in the UK due to COVID-19, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice on your individual circumstances.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please don’t hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
©Gherson 2021
Solicitor in our General Immigration Department