Britain introduces simplified entry procedures

ACCRA, October 04 -- Britain on Monday introduced a new type of visa designed to help visitors enter the country more easily. A statement in Accra on Tuesday by the British High Commission said this reflects London's commitment to "fairer, faster and firmer" entry clearance process.

The statement noted that until now, a visa has been issued at a British mission abroad, but the decision to give a visitor permission to enter has been taken by an immigration officer at the port of entry.

"That is now changing. From today (Monday), the entry clearance officer issuing a visa abroad will also grant leave to enter, and an immigration officer at the port of entry will simply verify that the visa is valid and in a genuine passport."

It said the new standard visa would cost the same as the current single entry visa, but it would allow for unlimited travel in and out of the United Kingdom during its validity.

It will usually be valid for six months from the date of issue, the statement said, and urged the travelling public to submit applications early to avoid delays at peak periods.

"An applicant may therefore ask for the visa to come into effect up to three months after its date of issue."

The statement said frequent travellers and business visitors could still aply for multiple entry visas, valid for one year, two years or five years. Each visit during that period can last a maximum of six months.