Entry Clearance Question

[Vayu]

Hi,

I now have to embark on the next step of the HSMP process, getting EC.

I had a look at the form provided by the British HC in Canberra, and the forms asked for my employment details.

Currently however, I am studying some postgrad stuff as I knew that the HSMP approval process was going to take couple of months (which is did).

Will the fact that I am not currently employed have any bearing on my entry clearance application? Should I highlight the fact that I am doing some post grad study to boost my career prospects in the UK?

Also, if anyone knows, what is the typical amount of funds that I will need to show to a UK high commission. Would 3000 pounds be enough?

[Dip]

Hi,

Will the fact that I am not currently employed have any bearing on my entry clearance application? Should I highlight the fact that I am doing some post grad study to boost my career prospects in the UK?

If your situation changed during the application stage of your HSMP (but before the verdict), you should have informed HSMP team. Did you inform them? This is assuming you applied as an employed person status claiming points for salary.

IMHO, it should not matter as you are anyways required to quit your current job for moving to the UK. However if you tried to conceal something to the HSMP team, your situation could be different. If your situation is bonafide - you must mention that in your EC application covering letter.

On finance front, there are some posts if you look back that provide you with indicative amounts you need to show.

Rgds
Dip

[Vayu]

Hi Dip,

Thanks for the quick reply.

Actually, didn't conceal anything (or at least I didn't intend to). I didn't think that my situation would be a problem.

I made clear in my application that I wasn't working at the time of application (January 04) having already already had quit my job in November 03 and was moving back to Australia in March to await the outcome of my application. They knew all this. In fact, when declaring my income and getting points, I even took a "hit" as I didn't offically earn anything in December 03.

Doing some extra study thing was a last minute decision..something to bide my time really and do something productive, based on the fact that the HSMP waiting times were getting longer and longer with no light at the end of the tunnel.

When I getting my application together, the official HO line was "one day turn around". A couple of days before or after my application, that turned into 4 weeks. A couple of weeks after that it turned into 6-8 weeks. Eventually it took me 2 months and one week to get a decision.

I still intend to make the UK my main home, and have started looking for work etc. But I felt like I had to do something while my life was on hold in the hands of the HO.

any comments on the original question - and dips and mine extra contribution - would be welcome!

cheers
vayu

[Dip]

Vayu,

If I were you I wouldnt worry at all. You should not have any problem just because you are studying.

Regards
Dip