New UK Visa Policy to Start on Set Date
The United Kingdom has recently announced a new visa policy, which is set to start on January 1st, 2021. This new policy aims to attract more highly skilled workers to the country, whilst also prioritizing the UK’s own workforce and reducing low-skilled migration.
Changes to Work Visas
The new policy introduces a points-based system for work visas, similar to that which is used in Australia. This system will give priority to those with higher qualifications, better English language skills, and those who have a job offer with a confirmed salary of at least ￡25,600. However, those who earn a lower salary may still be eligible for a work visa if they have a job offer in a shortage occupation or if they earn extra points for other aspects of their application.
Additionally, the new policy does away with the previous cap on the number of work visas that can be issued each year. This means that there will be no limit on the number of highly-skilled workers who can come to the UK for employment purposes.
Changes to Student Visas
The new policy also makes changes to the student visa system, making it easier for international students to remain in the UK after their studies. Under Tier 4 of the new points-based system, students studying at a university that has a track record of compliance will be able to apply for a visa to stay in the UK for two years after their studies are complete. Those studying at a PhD level will be able to apply for a visa to stay in the UK for three years after their studies.
It is hoped that these changes will make the UK a more attractive destination for international students, whilst also allowing the UK to retain some of the best talent in the world.
Reducing Low-Skilled Migration
The new policy also aims to reduce low-skilled migration to the UK. This will be achieved by introducing a salary threshold for all work visas, with a minimum salary of ￡20,480 per year. Additionally, visas will not be available for workers in sectors such as hospitality and retail, which have traditionally relied on low-skilled migrant workers.
It is hoped that these changes will encourage employers to invest in training and upskilling their existing workforce, whilst also preventing the exploitation of low-skilled workers.
Impact on Businesses
The new visa policy has been met with mixed reactions from businesses in the UK. Whilst some have praised the introduction of a points-based system, which they feel will attract more highly skilled workers, others have expressed concerns about the impact that the salary threshold will have on their ability to recruit staff.
Furthermore, some businesses have warned that the new policy could result in labour shortages in certain industries, particularly those that have traditionally relied on low-skilled migrant workers.
Conclusion
The new UK visa policy is set to have a significant impact on the country’s workforce, as well as on businesses operating within the UK. Whilst the policy aims to attract more highly skilled workers, whilst also reducing low-skilled migration, it remains to be seen how effective it will be in achieving these goals.
