UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) are currently offering individuals who are exempt from immigration control an “exempt vignette”. To ensure smooth entry into the UK, it is advised to obtain an exempt vignette prior to your travel, so long as you are eligible.

Who Is Exempt From Immigration Control?

Certain individuals may be exempt from immigration control in the UK. The specific categories of people who are exempt can vary and are subject to legal regulations. However, some common examples of individuals who may be exempt from immigration control include:

1. British citizens: Individuals who hold British citizenship do not require immigration permission to enter or reside in the UK.
2. European Economic Area (EEA) and Swiss nationals: Citizens of countries within the EEA (which includes EU member states) and Switzerland generally have freedom of movement and are exempt from immigration control in the UK.
3. Some family members of British citizens or settled persons: Certain close family members of British citizens or individuals with settled status in the UK may be exempt from immigration control, depending on their relationship and circumstances.
4. Diplomats and diplomatic staff: Diplomats and certain diplomatic staff members, as well as their dependents, are often granted exemption from immigration control based on their official status.
5. Sovereigns, Heads of State or Heads of ex-Reigning Houses, who are personae gratae to HMG whether travelling officially or privately (including their private servants).
6. Commonwealth citizens with the right of abode: Individuals who have the right of abode in the UK, usually acquired through a connection with a former British territory, are exempt from immigration control.
7. Employees of international organisations based, or with offices, in the UK who have been recruited overseas, as well as representatives and officials of the International Organisations listed when travelling to the UK in their official capacity on the official business of that organisation.
8. Members of Armed Forces and Arms Control Personnel.
9. Asylum seekers and refugees: Individuals who have been granted refugee status or are seeking asylum in the UK are exempt from immigration control for the duration of their refugee status or until a decision is made on their asylum application.

It is important to note that the specific requirements and exemptions can be complex and may be subject to change. It is advisable to consult with specialist immigration Solicitors such as ours at LEXVISA for advice on whether you qualify for an exemption.

How Do I Apply For A UK Exempt Vignette?

To apply for an exempt vignette, it is necessary to complete the appropriate application form. However, in certain cases, the Home Office may accept a Note Verbale instead of the application form, as long as it contains sufficient information.

It is important to note that individuals residing in North Korea cannot apply for an exempt vignette online.

Furthermore, the application for an exempt vignette should not be submitted earlier than three months prior to the intended entry into the UK. This type of application is free of charge and typically processed within approximately three weeks. Applicants who are exempt from immigration control are not required to provide biometric data. If the application is approved, the exempt vignette will be added to your passport, which you can present upon your arrival in the UK.

How Is An Application Under This Route Processed?

It is not possible to apply the provisions of the Immigration Rules to people who are not subject to UK legislation. Any decision to deny an exempt vignette must be made in accordance with the provisions of the relevant international framework, such as the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations 1961. In cases like this you should consult with DMIOU and the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s geographical department concerned. You should include detailed reasons why it is felt that the diplomat or their dependant should not be provided with an exempt vignette.

Why Instruct Our Immigration Team?

Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your prospects of submitting a spouse visa application before your application even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation and submission of a spouse visa application and are able to advise you in respect of your prospects and to ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.

Our offices are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice to ensure we get the best results for our clients.  We are minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.

Preparation is the key to successful immigration applications. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation to discuss your visa application.

Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.