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The UK has recently announced that they will introduce a new points-based immigration system that comes into force on 1st January 2021.

These immigration changes mean that both EU citizens and non-EEA citizens will be awarded points depending on qualifications, professions, skills and their ability to speak English if they want to apply for a visa. They will only be eligible for this visa if they gain enough points.

Although these changes aim to, “attract the high-skilled workers we need to contribute to our economy, our communities and our public services,” this announcement has left thousands of EU citizens, students, professionals and workers concerned that they may need to look elsewhere to further their professional and educational lives.

Here at Murria Solicitors, we know the importance of clarity when it comes to understanding immigration and nationality. That’s why we’ve decided to highlight some of the key facts about these changes for you, grouped according to individual circumstances.

[If you have any further questions, please contact us today.]

Skilled workers

● Skilled workers who want to take a job offer with a UK employer need a minimum of 70 points, but this depends on individual circumstances such as qualifications, skills and the job market

● To gain a work visa, an individual needs a job offer and a minimum salary of £25,600 per year.

● If the usual rate for the job is more than £25,600 but the employer is offering less, this will reduce the points available to the applicant.

● If there is a UK skills shortfall, a salary floor of £20,480 will be accepted. Check the Migration Advisory Committee’s (MAC) Shortage Occupation List for full details. If your occupation is on this list, you’ll also score higher points.

● There will be no cap or maximum limit placed on the number of skilled workers who can enter the UK each year.

● Skilled workers can bring their dependents to the UK if the dependents meet the eligibility criteria.

● Currently, there are no limits to the number of people who can enter the UK under this scheme.

Self Employed

● Self-employment rules will stay the same- there are currently no plans to introduce a new visa route for this group.

Unskilled workers

● The Seasonal Workers Pilot Scheme will expand, increasing the number of visas available to 10,000. This aims to support the UK agricultural industry.

Students
● Students from all countries, whether EU or non-EEA will need a visa to study in the UK.

● Criteria for a student visa includes the same points system.

● Individuals will need to prove that they have an offer from an approved educational establishment, they can support themselves financially and they can speak English.

Global Talent Visas

● The Global Talent Visa will soon be introduced with the aim of encouraging talented scientists and researchers to the UK.

● It will be available to non-EEA citizens then available to EU citizens when free movement ends.

● To be accepted for the Golden Talent Visa you will need to meet eligibility criteria and endorsement.

Visitors and holidaymakers

● EU citizens and other non-visa nationals can visit for up to 6 months without a visa.

● Passports will be required for travel to the UK. The use of National identity cards by EU citizens will be phased out.

EU citizens who are already in the UK

● You can apply for settled or pre-settled status if you’re already here or have arrived earlier than 31st December 2020. This means you’ll be free from immigration control.

● The deadline for applications is June 2020.

Immigration is a complex and detailed field that you need professional support to understand. This list is intended to be as comprehensive and informative as possible.

For further information, please do contact us here at Murria Solicitors today for up-to-date advice tailored to your unique circumstances.