Under the UK government’s initiative to curb migration, significant changes have been implemented in visa requirements, particularly concerning salary thresholds.
Minimum Salary Requirements for UK Visas
Effective from April 11, 2024, individuals seeking to work in the UK must secure a job offer with a substantially higher salary. The minimum earnings threshold has been raised to £38,700, a notable increase of nearly 50% from the previous £26,200 requirement. However, exemptions apply to certain professions, such as those in health and social care, and teachers on national pay scales. Notably, overseas care workers are unable to bring family dependents with them due to these regulations.
Despite criticisms from groups like the CBI and the Royal College of Nursing, then-immigration minister Robert Jenrick reassured that any resultant labor market gaps would be filled by British workers.
Family Visa Regulations
Applicants for family visas, allowing residence with a relative in the UK for over six months, must meet specific criteria, including a minimum income threshold. Initially set to rise sharply to £38,700 from the previous £18,600, concerns about potential family separations prompted the government to adjust the new minimum to £29,000. This threshold is slated to increase progressively to £34,500 and eventually £38,700 by early 2025. Renewing existing family visas does not necessitate meeting the new earnings threshold.
The Points-Based System (PBS)
The PBS requires applicants to accumulate 70 points to qualify for a skilled worker visa. Points are awarded based on factors such as job offers above a minimum skill level and proficiency in English. Additionally, applicants must meet healthcare surcharge requirements, with the standard fee rising to £1,035 per year from April 2024.
Shortage Occupation List
Designed to address critical sector vacancies, the shortage occupation list allows for lower salary thresholds, easing visa acquisition. Notably, the recent abolishment of the provision allowing foreign workers to be paid 80% of the “going rate” has impacted this list.
Migration Statistics
Migration statistics reveal significant trends, with non-EU nationals contributing significantly to net migration figures. The UK’s departure from the EU has marked the end of freedom of movement, influencing migration patterns significantly.
Student Visas and Seasonal Workers
The issuance of study visas and seasonal worker visas has been subject to specific regulations and requirements, reflecting the government’s broader immigration policies.
Overall, these reforms reflect the UK government’s efforts to reshape its immigration landscape in response to changing socio-economic dynamics and migration trends.
