As an expert in immigration law, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer regarding the consequences of overstaying your visa in the UK and the steps you should take to ensure you remain compliant with immigration laws.
Firstly, it is important to understand that the UK has a strict immigration policy, and overstaying your visa can lead to serious consequences. When your visa expires, you are expected to either leave the country or apply for an extension or a new visa before the expiration date. Failure to do so will result in you becoming an 'overstayer', which is considered a criminal offence under UK law.
**There is no 'grace period' once your visa expires.** This means that from the moment your visa expires, you are considered to be in the UK illegally. This can have several implications:

1. Legal Consequences: As an overstayer, you may be subject to arrest, detention, and removal from the country. This can also lead to a ban on re-entry to the UK for a certain period of time.

2. Access to Services: Overstayers are not entitled to public funds or certain benefits. This includes access to the National Health Service (NHS), social housing, and other public services.

3. Employment: It is illegal for employers to knowingly employ someone who does not have the right to work in the UK. As an overstayer, you will not have the legal right to work, and any employment you find may be informal and without legal protections.

4. No Legal Permission: Until you obtain a new visa, you will not have legal permission to be in the UK. This can make it difficult to travel, open a bank account, or conduct other activities that require proof of legal status.
To avoid becoming an overstayer, you should take the following steps:

1. Check Your Visa Expiry Date: Make sure you are aware of when your visa expires and plan accordingly.

2. Apply for an Extension or New Visa: If you wish to remain in the UK, you should apply for an extension of your current visa or a new visa that suits your circumstances. Applications should be made before your current visa expires.

3. Seek Legal Advice: If you are unsure about your immigration status or the options available to you, it is advisable to seek advice from a qualified immigration lawyer or a reputable immigration advice service.

4. Prepare for Departure: If you do not wish to apply for an extension or new visa, you should make plans to leave the UK before your visa expires to avoid becoming an overstayer.
In conclusion, it is crucial to be aware of the deadlines and the legal implications of overstaying your visa in the UK. By taking proactive steps and seeking professional advice, you can ensure that you remain compliant with immigration laws and avoid the serious consequences of being an overstayer.
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If you do not leave the UK or apply to extend your stay before your visa expires, you become an 'overstayer'. Overstaying is a criminal offence. There is no 'grace period' once your visa expires. You will have no legal permission to be in the UK until you get a new visa.Apr 5, 2017read more >>