Britain proposes modernisation of short-term visas

The sponsors, who will be given identity cards, will have the duty to ensure that their visitors comply with the terms of their visas and leave before the expiry of the travel document.     

"The new system makes the family of the sponsor more visible," Byrne told reporters here through a video conference uplinked from London.     
The proposals also provide for a fine of upto 5000 pounds or in case of more serious violations a maximum jail term of 14 years for the sponsor if the visitor violates British laws, Byrne said.     

British citizens and those with indefinite leave to remain in the UK will be required to become licensed sponsors before their family members can visit from abroad.     

The changes follow a three-month consultation process, which for the first time included talks with members of foreign community, including in India.     

In a bid to encourage more tourists, Byrne also proposed to introduce a new low-cost three-month group visa and India is likely to be one of the countries in which the new visa will be tested before implementation worldwide.