Story perspectives

MSP Manivannan Deletes £1,161 Fundraiser Amid Visa Claim

5/14/2026

Summary

Manivannan Deletes Fundraiser

MSP Q Manivannan raised £1,161 and then deleted the fundraiser.
He said money would cover the £2,089 visa fee and a £5,047 Global Talent visa.
Manivannan’s student visa expires later this year and limits work to 20 hours weekly.
The Home Office says elected roles are not employment and ineligible for Global Talent visas.
Manivannan and the Scottish Greens have refused all media requests, despite donors Kate Nevins and Mridul Wadhwa.

Summary

Manivannan Visa Threat

The Scotland Act bars anyone without a legal right to stay from serving as an MSP, endangering Manivannan’s seat if his visa lapses.
A graduate visa would keep him in the UK for only three years, so he could be forced out mid-term as an MSP.
Party members saw Manivannan post a “begging for cash” fundraiser link in an internal chat, sparking concerns over fundraising practices.

History

Historical Context

The UK’s Highly Skilled Migrant Programme, launched on 28 January 2002, was overhauled in March 2008 when the points-based system replaced it with Tier 1 (General). That same year the Home Office added a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) route, charging £1,000 and granting 5,200 approvals in its first year, sparking debate over elected officials’ eligibility. The rule barred MPs from using the scheme, prompting criticism from the Scottish Greens and other parties.

1 of 3

Manivannan Deletes Fundraiser

MSP Q Manivannan raised £1,161 and then deleted the fundraiser.
He said money would cover the £2,089 visa fee and a £5,047 Global Talent visa.
Manivannan’s student visa expires later this year and limits work to 20 hours weekly.
The Home Office says elected roles are not employment and ineligible for Global Talent visas.
Manivannan and the Scottish Greens have refused all media requests, despite donors Kate Nevins and Mridul Wadhwa.

1 / 3