GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES MAJOR PLANS TO REDUCE NET MIGRATION
The UK government's new immigration plan, set to be implemented in spring 2024, includes the following key changes:
Increase in Minimum Salary Threshold for Skilled Workers: The minimum salary for skilled workers under the Skilled Worker visa route will be increased from £26,200 to £38,700. This change is aimed at encouraging businesses to prioritise local talent and invest in their workforce. Health and social care roles will be exempt from this increase.
Restrictions on Care Workers Bringing Dependants: Overseas care workers will no longer be allowed to bring dependants to the UK. Additionally, care providers in England will need to be regulated by the Care Quality Commission to sponsor overseas care workers. This measure is intended to tighten the Health and Care Worker visa and prevent its abuse.
Ending Salary Discount for Shortage Occupations: The government will abolish the 20% going-rate salary discount currently applied to Shortage Occupation routes. The Shortage Occupation List will be reviewed, and a new, shorter list of shortage occupation roles will be created in collaboration with the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC).
Increase in Minimum Income Threshold for Family Visas: The minimum income threshold for family visas will be raised significantly from £18,600 to £38,700, aligning with the new Skilled Worker salary threshold. This change aims to ensure that individuals can financially support any dependants they wish to bring to the UK.
Review of the Graduate Visa Route: The Graduate visa route, which allows overseas students to stay in the UK for at least 2 to 3 years after completing their course, will be reviewed. The MAC will be asked to ensure this route works in the best interests of the UK and to take steps to prevent its abuse.
These changes are part of a broader strategy to reduce net migration to the UK, with the government aiming to cut net migration by around 300,000. The implementation of these measures coincides with the period leading up to the next general election, due in 2024.
There has already been concern from the UK business community, who were not expecting such drastic measures to be taken. If you need to seek advice about any of the changes, or need to understand how to adjust your immigration strategy in light of these changes, contact Chris Dias at HORSFIELD MENZIES for assistance.