Home Secretary Priti Patel has launched the new points-based immigration system today. This system will take effect on 1 January 2021.
Points will be granted for specific skills, qualifications, salaries or professions. The government will only give visas to those who attain a certain number of total points.
The government wants to reduce overall immigration of low-skilled workers, tighten security and give those coming into the UK a better experience.
The new system will give top priority to scientists, mathematicians, academics and engineers. The government proposes to open the Global Talent Scheme for such migrants.
This scheme removes the yearly cap on migrants and increases the number of endorsing bodies. Moreover, the Home Office will provide them with a fast-track entry to the UK.
In the future, a non-sponsored will also be introduced, in line with recommendations from the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) report.
Skilled Workers
The points-based system will take into account specific skills and the ability to speak English. Moreover, all applicants must hold a job offer from an approved employer at a minimum salary of £25,600. This must be in line with the Migration Advisory Committee recommendation.
Furthermore, the points-based system will require skilled-workers to be qualified up to A level, as opposed to degree-level under the current system. This will expand the pool of skilled workers available to employers.
Student Visa Routes
The government plans to make Student visas points-based too. Students will have to prove that they have an offer from a university, can speak English and can support themselves financially. This route is open to students from all over the world.
Low-skilled Workers
There will be no specific route for low-skilled workers. Consequently, this will bring the overall numbers down. It is estimated that 70% of the existing workforce would not be able to meet the skilled-worker requirements.
However, EU citizens resident in the UK by 31 December 2020 can still apply to settle in the UK through the EU Settlement Scheme until June 2021.
Non-visa holders, including EU nationals, will be able to enter the UK without a visa when visiting for up to 6 months. Moreover, the Home Office plans to phase out the use of national identity cards in travel.
How NA Law Solicitors can help
Brexit news is not always easy to understand and understanding your position can be confusing. We can help you with your immigration questions regarding Brexit. We can assist you with EU and EEA Immigration Applications, EU Settlement Scheme, EEA Family Permit Applications. For all our services, please visit us here.
