2ndclassC wrote:Just to let you guys know I have just filled out the form on the watchdog website so I implore you all to do it if you want answers.
Also what number are you all calling to get hold of the border agency?
Perhaps our local MPs should be consulted as to what they think is the best way forward to get the UKBA's attention. They will be best to know how the system works.
If we want the right people to listen to the concerns we have, we first need to summarise a list of legitimate arguements for our case before it can be taken seriously. I'm afraid "it's taking too long" is not a good enough reason. Arguements I can think of are:
1. The UKBA charges circa £1400 to apply for an ILR for a main member and one dependant and even more for a family. The money is taken out of our account within 2 days however no feedback on the progress is given before 6 months and even after 6 months, their response to a telephone enquiry is a standard answer that it is being processed.
2. Being encouraged by the Government to work in the UK so that our skills can benefit the country and not being able to claim any public funds while paying full income tax and national insurance for between 4 and 5 years, which is the condition of our visas, then receiving this kind of service from the UKBA is unfair to say the least.
3. By arriving at the stage where we can apply for ILR, some of us had to apply for an initial visa for 2 or 3 years, then an extension. If our skills were that important, why not issue a 5 year visa straight away? Instead, the two stage process means we have to pay more fees resulting in some paying almost £10,000 including the ILR fees and using solicitors/agents. It seems unreasonable to have this kind of service from the UKBA when after all that we've contributed to the public funds, the one thing we ask for in return is a quick turn around time in our application. Are we going to go on the dole as soon as the application has been approved? No, we will continue to make a contribution to the UK economy.
4. Many applicants' lives are on hold such as mortgage applications (where further money is paid to the interest charged by the banks), critical and necessary travel plans, job promotions, sourcing new jobs, starting a new business and developing skills through further education.
5. Everything we do to meet the government's requirements have been done. One of which is the knowledge of life in the UK test. While it is a good idea to implement such a test to integrate into British culture, there is a fee of £50 per test in addition to having to but the text book for £10 making the total cost £60 per person. If the government is encouraging migrants to integrate, shouldn't this be provided at a reduced cost if not free after years of supporting the economy and receiving nothing in return other than NHS? Not even the text book is provided without cost.
6. Although it is understood that it is a priviledge to be accepted as UK citizens in the long run, which is why many choose to live here, we are simply asking for a faster turn around time in our ILR applications, nothing more. Considering the points highlighted above, is this too much to ask for after having contributed so much in the process?
The above is all I can think of at this stage. If anyone else wishes to add to that, please do and I think there can then be a comprehensive list of reasons why the higher level of people in government should look at the issue of the UKBA's processing times more seriously. There are some influencial MP's other than our local MPs who are supportive of skilled migrants playing a key role in the UK economy and I believe it is those MPs who should be contacted or emailed with our list of concerns.
Any more suggestions are welcome.
