4 Key Updates to the UK Immigration Rules 2024 | UK Visa Update

In this blog, we discuss the substantial modifications to the UK’s immigration laws that went into force in April 2024. Come explore the implications of these changes for employers and visa applicants as we discuss anything from revised skilled occupation classifications to raised salary thresholds.

Significant Changes to Salary Thresholds

The minimum wage requirements for skilled worker visas have been significantly raised by the UK government in a significant modification to immigration laws that will take effect on April 4, 2024. The general wage criterion for new applications has increased from £26,200 to £38,700 annually, and the requirement for roles on the Shortage Occupation List has increased from 20,960 to £23,200.

In addition to increasing expenses for sponsoring firms, these modifications are intended to more accurately represent the market value of skilled labor.

Adjustments for Existing Visa Holders

Employers must be aware that workers who renew their visas or switch jobs will now be required to pay a revised minimum of £29,000 per year instead of the new general level. Furthermore, the prior wage thresholds will still be applicable for individuals whose certificates of sponsorship were issued before the modifications, so long as their applications are submitted within three months.

Revised Skilled Occupation Classifications

Updates to the Skilled Occupation Classifications are also included in this release. Notably, fewer candidates are extending their visas with the same company within the UK, and several professions—such as massage therapists—have been removed from the list of those eligible for sponsorship. This indicates a change in the immigration procedure where high-skilled occupations are given priority.

Increased Family Visa Requirements

In addition to the skilled worker provisions, as of April 11, 2024, the minimum income criterion for family visas increased to £29,000 from £18,000. Additional hikes are scheduled to bring this requirement in line with the skilled worker threshold by the following spring.

What employers need to know

The most recent adjustments call for a reassessment of hiring practices, especially about new international hires. Employers are recommended to consult immigration specialists to handle these revisions efficiently and guarantee compliance to avoid potential visa refusals due to the heightened cost implications.

To lessen the effects of these new standards, they also need to take into account internal methods like emphasizing retention and looking into opportunities for upskilling within the current Workforce. These developments signal a dramatic change in the UK’s immigration policy, highlighting the necessity for companies to remain educated and modify their hiring procedures as necessary.

UK’s New Visa Rules Impact on Skilled Worker Recruitment

In this blog, we explore the latest developments in UK immigration law, with particular emphasis on the new visa regulations that have affected foreign graduate hiring at KPMG and other companies. This policy change has wider ramifications for several economic sectors that depend on trained foreign laborers in addition to potential employees.

Come along as we examine these measures’ immediate effects and their implications for the UK’s skilled employment market going forward.

Tougher Visa Requirements for Skilled Workers

In response to the government’s imposition of more stringent visa regulations for foreign workers, KPMG, a leader in the global professional services industry, has lately revoked employment offers to several foreign graduates in the UK. This action follows the UK’s decision to increase the income requirement for the skilled worker visa, which has an impact on the capacity of businesses to sponsor foreign talent.

Immediate Effects on Graduate Employment

According to The Financial Times, KPMG has resent offers to incoming graduates as a result of the increase in the minimum wage required to sponsor a Skilled Worker Visa in the UK. The new pay is £38,700 for people over 26 and £30,960 for those under 26. Graduate programs that were previously eligible for sponsorship under the category of skilled worker visas will be greatly impacted by this decision.

Broader Economic Concerns

Aiming to reduce immigration, the December 2023 announcement of a change in visa policy presents difficulties for industries that mostly rely on skilled foreign labor, such as IT, architecture, engineering, and the creative industries. KPMG’s response to the directive to stop hiring recent graduates from outside of London who need skilled worker visas, except for some positions like junior actuaries, reflects the general concern in the business community with these new limitations.

Looking Ahead

KPMG’s hiring approach has changed, with a greater emphasis now being placed on domestic applicants and the exploration of other talent pools, such as hiring more ex-offenders. Businesses are under pressure to quickly adjust as the UK tightens immigration laws, changing the environment for foreign professionals and students hoping to work in the country under the Skilled Worker Visa.