World news story

British High Commissioner to Bangladesh confirms UK decision not to proceed with visa bond scheme

The UK government has decided not to go ahead with a visa bond scheme

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

The UK government remains committed to tackling immigration abuse and has been looking at a range of options. One of those options was a financial bond. The British government has now decided not to proceed with that option.

A spokesperson for the British Home Office said on 3 November, “The government has been considering whether we pilot a bond scheme that would deter people from overstaying the visa. We have decided not to proceed.”

Today British High Commissioner Robert W Gibson confirmed the decision. He said, “The UK wants the brightest and the best to help create the jobs and growth that will enable Britain to compete in the global race. If you are an overseas businessperson seeking to invest and trade with world class businesses, one of the thousands of legitimate students keen to study at our first-class universities or a tourist visiting our world class attractions, be in no doubt: Britain is open for business.”

Published 4 November 2013