DILI, 20 July 2023 (TATOLI)-– The British Embassy in Indonesia and Timor-Leste issued on Wednesday 19 July, a circular regarding the introduction of visa requirements for Timor-Leste citizens who wish to visit the British Country.
“All Timorese citizens will require a visa before traveling to the United Kingdom (UK), including for visits,” the statement wrote.
The decision to introduce a visa regime has been made due to the continued and significant increase in the number of Timorese nationals who do not intend to make short visits, but enter as non-native visitors, with the intention of working in the UK illegally, and often fraudulently claiming to be dependent EU (EU) citizens with UK resident status.
“The decision to impose a visa regime on citizens of Timor-Leste brings us into line with existing practices of international partners including Ireland, the United States, Canada, and New Zealand, “It says.
The statement also stated that the changes will apply to all Timorese nationals wishing to enter the UK. However, there will be a four-week transition period until Wednesday 16 August 15:00 BST (British Summer Time) during which visitors who book their travel before 15:00 BST on 19 July will still be able to enter the UK without a visa.
It also highlighted the online payment for Visa applications at www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk, while the six-month dual entry visa fee for the UK fee can be found at Visa fees – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Longer validity visas are also available. after which the applicant makes an appointment at the Visa Application Center to provide biometrics and submit their passport.
“The UK government aims to process applications within 15 UK working days of receipt of passport and biometrics and applicants can submit applications up to three months in advance,”
Timorese nationals who booked travel to the UK before 15:00 BST on 19 July 2023 can still enter the UK without a visa until 15:00 BST Wednesday 16 August 2023. Any passengers arriving after 16 August will need a visa to enter the UK regardless of when their travel was booked. Anyone booking a flight after 15:00 BST on 19 July will also need a visa, even if they arrive before 15:00 BST on 16 August.
However, the Statement also revealed that the new requirement will not be affected the Timorese visitors already in the UK for the remainder of their visit, but once they leave the UK they will need a visitor visa to enter the UK again.
Citizens of Timor-Leste are already required to obtain visas for other (non-visit) purposes, such as to work or study. Applicants for student or other visas will continue to be able to apply for these visas, as they have done previously.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Nelia B.
