Latest news with #UKVisasandImmigration
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Business Standard
2 hours ago
- Health
- Business Standard
UK care worker visa: Just 3.4% of exploited migrants helped by govt scheme
A UK government programme meant to help thousands of migrant care workers find new jobs after falling victim to employer exploitation has helped just 3.4% of them, official figures show. Between May 2024 and April 2025, more than 28,000 care workers whose visas were tied to their employer were referred to government-run job support 'hubs', according to data released by the Home Office under a Freedom of Information request submitted by the charity Work Rights Centre. These referrals followed investigations by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), which found that over 470 employers had been exploiting migrant staff and had their sponsor licences revoked. But only 941 of the workers referred through these hubs reported finding alternative jobs. 'This casts serious doubt on the effectiveness of the government's plan to fill social care vacancies using displaced migrant workers,' said Dora-Olivia Vicol, chief executive of the Work Rights Centre. 'Instead of jobs, they got scams' 'After Covid, England desperately needed more care workers, and thousands of people from around the world answered that call in good faith,' said Vicol. 'But instead of jobs they got scams, and instead of justice they got a referral to a programme that simply doesn't work as intended.' She called on the government to overhaul the Health and Care Worker visa scheme so that workers are not dependent on employer sponsorship to remain in the country. The Home Office has earlier said that 10,000 of the roughly 40,000 workers affected by the licence revocations had found other jobs, but it is unclear how many of these received help from official job hubs. Why the visa route grew—and why it's now being shut The Health and Care Worker visa route was introduced by Boris Johnson's government in 2020. At the time, social care in the UK was grappling with a growing shortage of workers due to Covid-19, Brexit, and an ageing population. The scheme allowed UK-based care businesses to fast-track the hiring of overseas workers, provided they were licensed sponsors. However, minimal checks were done on these employers. As a result, thousands of workers arrived from countries like India, the Philippines and Nigeria. But many later discovered that the promised jobs didn't exist or came with exploitative conditions. Because their visas were tied to their employers, they could not easily leave those jobs. Many were afraid to report abuse due to the risk of deportation. Once the employers' licences were revoked, the workers lost their right to work and had to seek a new sponsor. Keir Starmer bans new recruitment from overseas Prime Minister Keir Starmer's government announced last month that care homes and agencies in Britain would no longer be allowed to recruit new workers from abroad. According to the draft Immigration White Paper, those already in the UK on Health and Care Worker visas will be allowed to extend or switch into other routes until 2028 under a transition period. This policy will be subject to review. The decision comes amid mounting pressure from Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, which has campaigned on stricter migration controls. Nearly 700,000 Health and Care Worker visas have been issued over the past five years, government data show. In 2023 alone, the UK granted about 1,40,000 health and care visas. Of these, nearly 39,000 were issued to Indian nationals. 'Care workers from overseas have made a huge contribution to social care in the UK, but too many have been subject to shameful levels of abuse and exploitation,' the government said in a press release dated May 12, 2025. 'Workers seeking to support the UK's care sector arrived to find themselves saddled with debt, treated unfairly, or in extreme cases discover the jobs they were promised did not exist.' Kerala scam victims still trapped in debt Many of the worst-hit victims of visa fraud have been Indian workers, particularly from Kerala. A BBC investigation in March found that a surge in fake care jobs followed the UK's decision to add social care roles to its shortage occupation list during the pandemic, making it easier to sponsor foreign workers. Kerala police say they now receive daily complaints about fake job offers to the UK, Europe, Canada and New Zealand. 'This is not just about one or two isolated cases. There's a pattern here,' a senior officer told the BBC. 'Fraudsters are swindling lakhs of rupees from unsuspecting people by falsely promising them jobs.' According to Ketan Mukhija, senior partner at Burgeon Law, scammers deliberately target Keralites. 'Fraudsters target individuals from Kerala primarily due to their strong aspirations for better employment opportunities abroad,' Mukhija told Business Standard. 'Many migrants are driven by economic necessity and the desire to support their families, making them more susceptible to scams that promise high-paying jobs.' He added that legal recourse is often out of reach. 'Lawyers are expensive, and these workers are already in deep debt.' Local NGO Thittala estimates that between 1,000 and 2,000 Keralites remain in the UK after falling prey to such scams. Many more are stuck in India after spending their life savings on agents. In Kothamangalam, a small town in Ernakulam district, BBC reporters met around 30 individuals who said they had collectively lost crores of rupees trying to obtain UK care visas.
Time Business News
02-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Handling Complex UK Visa Refusal Cases in Pakistan for 22 Years
Handling complex UK visa refusal cases in Pakistan for 22 years ,for over 22 years, professional UK immigration specialists in Pakistan were managing some of the most complex UK visa refusal instances from misunderstood documentation and misapplied immigration guidelines to repeated rejections and human rights claims. These experts provide deep crook notion, practical revel in, and a shown track record of turning refusals right into a fulfillment consequences. Whether you're making use of for a family visa, student visa, partner agreement, or coping with a visa ban, facts the motive on your refusal and knowing a manner to reply as it needs to be is important. Complex instances require extra than certainly form filling—they name for prison facts, hobby to element, and strategic making plans. Why UK Visa Refusals Happen UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) might also refuse visa programs for numerous motives, alongside: Lack of credibility in intentions to move returned (specifically for go to visas) Discrepancies in monetary or employment file Incomplete or deceptive facts Unexplained gaps in tour or residency statistics Previous immigration breaches (overstay, visa situations violation) Relationship authenticity doubts in partner/accomplice visas Inadmissibility due to crook statistics or UK immigration information In oftentimes, the refusal is not approximately ineligibility, but inadequate evidence or dubious presentation. This is where expert immigration experts, with a long time of fulfillment in Pakistan, step in. 22 Years of Proven Expertise Over the years, seasoned immigration advisors and UK-certified attorneys in Pakistan have helped lots of customers overcome important visa refusals. Their technique consists of: 1. Detailed Case Review They start with an in depth evaluation of the refusal letter, figuring out every apparent and hidden reason at the back of the rejection. 2. Legal Strategy Planning Each complex case is approached with a tailor-made technique whether or not or not or not it consists of an appeal, administrative assessment, or an easy software with progressed documentation. 3. Support in Gathering Strong Evidence For relationship-primarily based completely, monetary, or credibility-associated refusals, they guide clients on presenting concrete, lawful evidence that without delay counters the refusal elements. 4. Appeals and Tribunal Representation Professionals with UK jail connections or dual qualifications coordinate appeals with UK solicitors and barristers, ensuring complete criminal insurance. 5. High-Risk Case Management This consists of visa refusals after bans, get proper access to clearance refusals beneath paragraph 320 (deception), or instances associated with re-get admission to after overstaying within the UK. FAQs Q1: What makes a UK visa refusal case 'complex'? A1: A complicated case commonly involves multiple refusals, deceptive documents (intentional or accidental), human rights worries, immigration statistics troubles, or crook instances at a tribunal diploma. Q2: Can a complex refusal be overturned with a glowing software? A2: Sometimes, nice. If the refusal became based on lacking documents or uncertain statistics, a well-prepared reapplication may be a success. However, instances related to criminal mistakes or bans can also require appeals. Q3: How prolonged does it take to treat a complex visa refusal? A3: It is predicated upon at the course—reapplications also can take 1–three months, appeals can take 6–3 hundred and sixty five days, and greater immoderate times (like bans) may moreover additionally take longer. Q4: Are all refusal instances appealable? A4: No. Only positive visa kinds (e.G., circle of relatives settlement, human rights) allow complete enchantment rights. Others (like tourist visas) may not, however you can qualify for an administrative evaluation or smooth software. Q5: How do I apprehend if I need crook assistance? A5: If you've been refused extra than as soon as, don't without a doubt understand the motives for refusal, or face essential accusations (e.G., deception or faux files), you ought to be searching out expert prison recommendations right away. Conclusion Handling complex UK visa refusal cases in Pakistan for 22 years dealing with a UK visa refusal in particular a complicated one may be demanding and emotionally draining. But with over 22 years of experience, relied on immigration experts in Pakistan have helped clients navigate even the hardest instances with functionality and care. From appeals and reapplications to managing visa bans and prison traumatic conditions, their records keep to provide renewed want to masses of households, college students, and experts. If your UK visa has been refused and you're uncertain of the following step, don't take opportunities. Rely on the revel in, legal statistics, and strategic steering of those who've successfully resolved complex immigration times for additonal than a few years. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Khaleej Times
26-02-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
VFS Global pioneers AI and digital innovation; launches AI-powered chatbot for UK visa customers
VFS Global has recently launched a new Generative AI-powered chatbot to enhance customer support for travellers to the UK. The AI-Powered Chatbot not only utilises advanced Generative AI technology to offer human-like, conversational support, but does so through both voice and text commands, providing instant, accurate, and accessible information for customers travelling to the UK. Developed by VFS Global's AI team, headquartered in Dubai, the AI-Powered Chatbot addresses the increasing demand for efficient customer support, allowing users to easily access the information needed to navigate the application process. Jen Vidler, deputy director, cross cutting service operations, visa, status and information services, Customer Services Group, UK Visas and Immigration, said, "The rollout of VFS Global's AI-powered chatbot demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring our visa services are accessible, efficient and meet the needs of all customers. Providing instant access to accurate information about the visa application process will ensure we continue to offer the best service to our customers." Zubin Karkaria, founder and CEO, VFS Global, added: "Technology and innovation have always been the cornerstones of our operations at VFS Global, and we are pleased to launch this AI-powered information solution which will significantly enhance the visa application experience for our customers travelling to the UK from across the globe. We are developing a range of AI and digital technology driven products to drive the next transformation in visa and consular services for our Client Governments and customers. We remain deeply committed to the responsible development of AI in accordance with the policies and requirements of our client governments." The AI-Powered chatbot was developed using advanced Generative AI technologies, each trained exclusively on publicly available data from their respective VFS Global Country-to-UK websites. Built and hosted entirely on VFS Global's secure IT infrastructure, the AI models adhere to rigorous data privacy and security standards. A dedicated team of data scientists and AI specialists collaborated on the project, leveraging in-house expertise to uphold the highest quality and security standards, with VFS Global's AI centres based in Dubai (the headquarters for AI and Digital Operations), Mumbai, and Berlin. Ethical AI practices were a key focus, with VFS Global partnering with the 'Responsible AI Institute' to integrate ethical considerations and bias mitigation into the development process. Additionally, the project utilised proprietary AI platforms, including our AI Foundation Model and Super Alpha Application Platform, both equipped with built-in guardrails to ensure data safety, security, and regulatory compliance. Key features of the GenAI-Powered chatbot
TECHx
25-02-2025
- Business
- TECHx
VFS Global Launches AI-Powered Chatbot - TECHx Media VFS Global Launches AI-Powered Chatbot
VFS Global has unveiled a new AI-powered chatbot designed to improve customer support for travelers heading to the UK. Leveraging advanced Generative AI technology, this chatbot offers both voice and text-based conversational support, providing travelers with instant, accurate, and accessible information. Developed by VFS Global's AI team based in Dubai, the chatbot addresses the growing need for efficient customer support. It allows users to easily navigate the visa application process and obtain essential information. Jen Vidler, Deputy Director of UK Visas and Immigration, said, 'The rollout of VFS Global's AI-powered chatbot demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring our visa services are accessible, efficient, and meet customer needs. Instant access to accurate information will enhance the visa application process.' Zubin Karkaria, Founder & CEO of VFS Global, emphasized the company's focus on technology and innovation. 'We're excited to launch this AI-driven solution, enhancing the visa application experience for our customers globally. Our commitment to the responsible development of AI is integral to the transformation of visa and consular services.' The AI chatbot uses Generative AI models trained exclusively on publicly available data from VFS Global's UK-specific websites. Hosted on VFS Global's secure IT infrastructure, the system adheres to strict privacy and security protocols. VFS Global's AI team in Dubai, Mumbai, and Berlin worked closely to ensure the highest standards of data protection. Ethical AI practices were prioritized, with collaboration from the Responsible AI Institute to ensure fair and unbiased responses. Proprietary AI platforms, including the AI Foundation Model and Super Alpha Application Platform, ensure regulatory compliance and safeguard data privacy. Key Features of the GenAI-Powered Chatbot: Human-like interactions: Mimics natural conversation for better engagement. Mimics natural conversation for better engagement. Country-specific information: Provides accurate, relevant details tailored to users' needs. Provides accurate, relevant details tailored to users' needs. Data masking and PII detection: Prevents storage of sensitive personal information. Prevents storage of sensitive personal information. Secure AI hosting: Safeguards data by ensuring no external data sharing. Safeguards data by ensuring no external data sharing. Ethical AI practices: Ensures fairness and minimizes bias. Ensures fairness and minimizes bias. 24/7 availability: Users can access assistance at any time. Users can access assistance at any time. User feedback mechanism: Continuously refines chatbot responses based on user input. VFS Global's new AI-powered chatbot is set to revolutionize the way travelers interact with visa services, offering them a smoother, more efficient application experience.
The Guardian
12-02-2025
- Business
- The Guardian
UK universities automating interviews face ‘deepfake' applicants
British universities seeking to save time and money by automating their interviews with international students face a new threat: 'deepfake' applicants. Enroly, a software platform used by a number of universities to automate their application processes, said it had uncovered something 'straight out of a sci-fi film' after catching a small number of candidates using deepfake technology to record their online interviews. A deepfake uses artificial intelligence-generated images or audio to replace faces and voices, allowing applicants to replace their words or accent with a more fluent version, or to disguise the fact someone else entirely is giving the answers. So far Enroly said the numbers are tiny – with only about 30 cases out of 20,000 interviews during this year's January intake – but it is evidence that the technology is, in its words, 'the future of fraud'. Phoebe O'Donnell, Enroly's head of services, who revealed the deception in a blogpost, said that deepfakes are 'the stuff of nightmares for interview assessors – fake faces layered over real ones, complete with expressions and movements. 'It's like something out of a spy film. And yes, they're incredibly hard to detect. But hard isn't impossible. Thanks to real-time tech and a few clever tricks up our sleeves, we've already stopped several attempts,' she said. 'It's a small but growing trend, and we're determined to stay ahead of it and work with our partners and the wider sector.' Last year the chief executive of WPP, the world's biggest advertising group, was targeted in an elaborate deepfake scam that involved an AI-generated voice clone and video representing him on a conference call. O'Donnell said Enroly's analysts found 'outright deception' being used in 1.3% of the 20,000 interviews, with deepfakes accounting for just 0.15%, far behind more traditional methods such as impersonation and lip-syncing or 'third-party support' from someone off-camera. Enroly said it uses multiple methods to weed out fraud, including facial recognition and passport matching. A number of UK universities now use automated online interviews and questionnaires to screen international student applicants, especially before issuing the crucial confirmation of acceptance for studies (CAS) certificate required for the Home Office to issue a visa. The automated interviews allow applicants to record answers to randomly selected questions through the online platform, which are later reviewed by university admissions staff. Those that are unsatisfactory or suspicious can be flagged for further review – including a live interview with the candidate. UK universities need to carefully vet international applicants. They risk losing their licence to sponsor students through UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) if the Home Office refuses more than 10% of its sponsored applicants in a year. The automated interviews can be used to check an applicant's performance and how well they communicate in English in a fraction of the time taken by live online interviews.
