Major Changes to Immigration Laws
On 4th December 2024, the Home Secretary, The Rt Hon James Cleverly MP, unveiled a strategy to reduce UK migration levels significantly. This comprehensive plan is expected to prevent approximately 300,000 individuals who arrived in the UK last year from being able to do so.
The set of measures aims to curtail the number of dependents, raise the minimum salaries for both overseas workers and sponsors of family members who are British or settled, and address exploitation throughout the immigration system. Notably, changes will be made to the Health and Care Worker visa, restricting overseas care workers from bringing dependents to the UK and specifying that care providers in England can sponsor migrant workers only for regulated activities.
What are the proposed changes to the UK immigration rules?
Starting next spring, the Government will increase the earning threshold for overseas workers by nearly 50%, reaching £38,700. The minimum income required for British citizens and settled individuals sponsoring family members will also increase from £18,600 to £38,700.
In addition, the Government plans to eliminate the 20% salary discount for shortage occupations and introduce a new Immigration Salary List, which will retain a general threshold discount. The Migration Advisory Committee will review this list against the elevated salary thresholds to reduce the number of occupations.
Additionally, the Migration Advisory Committee will review the Graduate visa route to ensure its alignment with the UK's best interests and take steps to prevent abuse.
The Home Secretary emphasised the need to bring down net migration to protect British workers, alleviate strain on public services, and prevent undercutting. The plan is part of the Government's Back to Work initiative, focusing on growing the domestic workforce and providing employment-focused support to individuals.
In addition to the migration reduction measures, the Government is raising the annual Immigration Health Surcharge from £624 to £1,035 to ensure that migrants contribute fairly to public services, including the NHS.
Notably, the inclusion of carers in the UK's immigration system was initially a temporary response to labour shortages during the pandemic. The latest measures aim to balance the needs of the NHS and social care systems while addressing concerns about non-compliance, exploitation, and abuse within the adult social care sector, particularly for overseas workers in care occupations.
Earlier in the year, the Government introduced measures to reduce the issuance of student visas, including restrictions on dependents and limiting the ability of international students to switch to work routes before completing their studies, which are set to take effect in January 2024.
What should I do if I want to come to live and work in the UK?
If you plan to come to the UK on a Spouse/Partner Visa, Skilled Worker Visa, or via another work visa route, you must contact an experienced Immigration Law Solicitor immediately to apply under the current rules. Delaying your visa application may result in it being rejected.
To discuss any aspect of your planned move to the UK, please call us at +44 161 224 4066.
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