hi

the new immigration laws are confusing me so have some questions if someone could answer please?

my thai gf has been here for one year on a student visa, she has to go back next month so we want to apply for a work visa next.

she has been working part-time while studying and the company will sponsor her to return to this job on a work visa.

what will be the process for this visa appliction and how has the law changed recently?

many thanks in advance

The law hasn't changed as yet, but it will do so in November this year.

As things currently stand, the company that wishes to employ your girlfriend will have to make an application to the UKBA for a work permit. Should the permit be issued, the employer then passes this to your girlfriend in Thailand and she makes an application for a visa as a work permit holder. Under the new rules, the employer will have to be registered with the UKBA as a sponsor and then can then issue a "certificate of sponsorship" to your girlfriend. The UKBA will either approve or deny the certificate. If approved, your girlfriend could then apply for a visa as the holder of a certificate.

Scouse.