York accountant frustrated by visa delays for Sri Lankan employee
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 05:02 · Archive
A York accountant said visa processing delays nearly led to his Sri Lankan employee being deported.
David Chan, director of Atrium Accounts in York, has expressed frustration over delays in processing a skilled worker visa for his employee Gileesha Katuwana, 31, a Sri Lankan national. Ms Katuwana had been working at the Clifton Moor-based firm after graduating from Leeds Beckett University in July 2024 and was on a two-year graduate visa expiring on 18 October.
Mr Chan applied to sponsor Ms Katuwana on 30 July to obtain a skilled worker visa. He used the Home Office's priority service at a cost of £1,361, comprising an application fee of £611 and a priority service fee of £750. The Home Office acknowledged receipt but on 4 August requested six months of bank statements, which Mr Chan provided on 6 August. The application was declined on 19 August.
The Home Office said it was not satisfied Mr Chan could maintain Ms Katuwana's prospective salary and that an accounts assistant role was inappropriate. Mr Chan disputed this, saying an accounts assistant is a key role at his practice and Ms Katuwana was already employed there, suggesting the Home Office had misunderstood his application. Ms Katuwana said the situation left her feeling stressed and uncertain about her future. The Home Office has been contacted for comment.
How it is being reported
- York accountant’s frustration after employee feared being deported over visa delaysA York accountant has voiced his frustration after his employee, a Sri Lankan national, feared she would be deported over delays in processing her visa.Gazette & Herald (Malton) · 15 Oct, 04:00
- York accountant’s frustration after employee feared being deported over visa delaysA York accountant has voiced his frustration after his employee, a Sri Lankan national, feared she would be deported over delays in processing her visa.The Press (York) · 15 Oct, 04:00
In this story: David Chan · Gileesha Katuwana · Atrium Accounts · York · Sri Lanka · Home Office
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