China Grants 30-Day Visa-Free Entry to UK Citizens From 17 February
Sponsors Face 18-Week Waits for Extra Certificates of Sponsorship
Private-Jet Deportation Halted After Detainee Swallows Vape Battery
Latest News
UK confirms full switch to eVisas for all visitor-visa nationals from 25 February 2026
The Home Office confirmed that from 25 February 2026 all nationals who require a visitor visa will receive an electronic visa only; paper vignettes will cease. Travellers must create a UKVI account and link their current passport or risk being denied boarding. Employers need to audit frequent travellers and update right-to-work processes. The change is a key milestone in the UK’s fully digital border strategy.
UK on course for first year of negative net migration since 1993, raising labour-shortage fears
Economic modelling shows the UK could record negative net migration in 2026 because of recent visa restrictions. Universities and key sectors already report shortages, and NIESR warns GDP could be 3.7 % lower by 2040 if the trend lasts. Employers should expect longer lead-times and higher salary costs when hiring from overseas.
Nine-day closure of Manchester Piccadilly starts today, disrupting airport links and business routes
Manchester Piccadilly’s platforms 1–12 closed for nine days from 14 February for an £7.9 m track and signalling overhaul. The shutdown severs rail links to Manchester Airport and will add up to 45 minutes to journeys. Business travellers should reroute via Stockport or alternative modes until 22 February.