The UK government has introduced a number of new changes to the visa rules for skilled workers from outside the UK. These changes came into effect on 6 April 2024.
The key changes are:
Increased salary threshold: The minimum salary threshold for skilled worker visas has increased from £26,200 to £38,700 per year. This means that in order to be eligible for a visa, skilled workers must now be earning a salary that is equal to or above this amount.
New Immigration Salary List: The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) has been replaced with a new Immigration Salary List (ISL). The ISL is a list of occupations that are considered to be in shortage in the UK. Skilled workers who are employed in an occupation on the ISL will be able to apply for a visa with a lower salary threshold of £25,600 per year.
Increased spouse/partner visa income requirement: The minimum income requirement for spouse/partner visas has increased from £18,600 to £29,000 per year. This means that in order to sponsor their spouse/partner for a visa, UK citizens and settled persons must now be earning a salary that is equal to or above this amount.
End of sponsor licence renewals: The requirement for employers to renew their sponsor licences has been removed. This means that employers will no longer need to pay a fee to renew their licence every four years.
What do the changes mean for skilled workers?
The new changes will make it more difficult for some skilled workers to come to the UK. However, the government has said that the changes are necessary to protect British jobs and to ensure that only the most skilled workers are able to come to the UK.
What should skilled workers do?
If you are a skilled worker who is thinking about coming to the UK, you should carefully check the new visa requirements to make sure that you are eligible. You should also seek advice from an immigration lawyer if you have any questions.
In addition to the above changes, the government has also announced a number of other changes to the immigration system, including:
The introduction of an electronic travel authorization (ETA) scheme for all visitors to the UK.
A review of the Graduate visa route.
A crackdown on student visas.
The government has said that these changes are part of its plan to create a "more fair and balanced" immigration system.