The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) and Visas for Researchers: Webinar

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Following a recent announcement by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCO), the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) will be expanded to international researchers as well as international students.

The ATAS scheme currently applies to certain international students who require a visa to study in the UK and are intending to study at postgraduate level in certain sensitive subjects which may be “against the UK’s national interests”, predominately in programmes to develop Advanced Conventional Military Technology (ACMT), weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) or their means of delivery.

From 21 May 2021, the ATAS will be extended to cover ‘researchers’ intending to work in the UK in areas of research in these same sensitive areas. The ATAS requirement will only affect those applying for Skilled Worker, Tier 5 GAE and visitor visas.

The briefings is run by Graeme Ross, Immigration and Compliance Manager for the HR Division. The briefing covers the known areas of guidance on how the scheme will operate, who will be eligible for an ATAS certificate, and the potential impacts on recruitment and immigration at the University.

Access the recording of the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) and Visas for Researchers Webinar.

• University staff
• Departmental Administrators and School Secretaries
• Further details regarding PPD's eligibility criteria

To understand:

• Who is a ‘researcher’ for ATAS purposes, and who is exempt from the requirement.
• Which areas of research will be affected by the need to gain an ATAS certificate.
• How the individual gains the ATAS certificate, and how this connects to the Certificate of Sponsorship and visa application processes.
• The separate process for visitors requiring ATAS, who this will impact, and responsibilities for checking the certificate.

• One session of half an hour

• Recruitment and Selection Skills
• Recruitment Essentials: Appointing the Right Candidate (Academic Appointments)
• Recruitment Essentials: Appointing the Right Candidate (Professional Services Appointments)