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By Sanwar Ali:
UK Sponsor Licence: Major Changes in 2024
Introduction
In 2024, the UK's immigration system will undergo significant changes, particularly affecting sponsor licence requirements to sponsor overseas workers. It is vital for employers, migrant workers, and families involved in the UK immigration process to understand the changes. This report offers an in-depth exploration of these developments.
Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold: A Notable Increase
The minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas is set for a substantial increase in April 2024. The new threshold of £38,700, up from £26,200, poses challenges for various sectors that depend on skilled migrant labor. It is claimed that this increase is designed to ensure that migrant workers are not underpaid compared to their UK counterparts. However, specific exemptions are provided for Health and Care visa applicants and professions with national pay scales, such as teaching.
Revamping the Shortage Occupation List
The UK government plans to overhaul the current Shortage Occupation List by introducing the Immigration Salary List. It is claimed that his new framework will better align the list with current labour market needs and address specific skills shortages in a more targeted manner. The revised list will determine the salary thresholds for occupations deemed critical to the UK economy, though full details of the thresholds and included occupations are yet to be released.
Restrictions on bringing Family Members for Migrant Care Workers
The upcoming rules will impose stricter regulations on migrant care workers, particularly regarding the entry of dependants into the UK. This change is part of a broader strategy to control immigration numbers. It will have far-reaching implications for migrant care workers planning to relocate to the UK with their families and is likely to lead to skills shortages.
Transitional Measures for Existing Skilled Workers
Current Skilled Worker visa holders will benefit from transitional arrangements. They will be exempt from the new salary threshold of £38,700 for future applications. This means that anyone who already has a Skilled Worker visa or has applied for one when the rules change in April 2024 can change employers, extend their permission, and apply for settlement after the rule changes without the new salary threshold applying. This provision is intended to offer some stability and predictability for workers and employers already engaged in the system.
Surge in Immigration Health Surcharge Fee
The Immigration Health Surcharge will see a significant increase, impacting most visa categories. This increase is probably also an attempt by the Government to reduce immigration. The surcharge is set to rise from £624 to £1,035 per year, starting from 6 February 2024, but will exclude certain visa categories, notably Health and Care visas.
Revised Partner Visa Income Requirements
Following public feedback and deliberation, the UK Government has revised its approach to the income requirement for partner visas. The proposed increase, initially set at £38,700, has been changed to a lower threshold of £29,000. This will not apply to visa renewals, indicating a more flexible approach than previously planned. The move was controversial due to the impact of such a significant increase on families and couples.
Conclusion
The 2024 changes to UK immigration rules are set to reshape the landscape for employers, migrant workers, and families. These changes are part of the Government's attempts to reduce immigration. Stakeholders are advised to stay informed and prepare for these changes.
How Workpermit.com Can Help with Sponsor Licences
If you need help with employing Skilled Workers and applying for a Sponsor Licence, including complying with your Sponsor Licence obligations, HR responsibilities, etc workpermit.com can help.
For more information and advice, please contact us at 0344 991 9222 or at london@workpermit.com(link sends e-mail)
