May 5th, 2024 at 07:57 am

Major UK Migration Changes and Reforms by James Cleverly ~ May 2024

The Home Secretary of the United Kingdom has taken resolute measures that have resulted in a notable decrease in migration, specifically about student-dependent visas.

Key changes and impacts

Compared to the prior year, the UK had a nearly 80% decrease in applications for student-dependent visas in the first quarter of 2024. This is per current rules that prevent international students from bringing family members until after they have finished their studies. These steps are intended to protect UK institutions’ integrity and combat the abuse of the educational system as a backdoor for immigration.

Additional measures and plans

James Cleverly, the home secretary, underlined that these adjustments are part of a larger plan to manage immigration sustainably. The government has also tightened restrictions on caregiver visas and aims to amend the skilled worker and family visa policies in response to popular concerns about the burden on services and wages.

The government is determined to show further progress in efficiently managing immigration and striking a balance between the demands of the economy and public opinion, so these reforms are just the beginning.

4 Key Updates to the UK Immigration Rules 2024

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.