UK Visa Update: New Changes to Immigration Rules

The United Kingdom has introduced new changes to its immigration rules, which will come into effect in 2021. These changes are aimed at making the visa process more streamlined and efficient, while ensuring that the UK remains an attractive destination for skilled and talented individuals from around the world.

Changes to the Skilled Worker Visa

One of the major changes to the immigration rules is the introduction of a new Skilled Worker Visa, which replaces the Tier 2 (General) visa. Under the new rules, the minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker Visa has been lowered from ￡30,000 to ￡25,600 per year. This will open up opportunities for a wider range of skilled workers to come and work in the UK.

Another significant change is the removal of the cap on the number of skilled workers who can come to the UK. This means that employers will no longer have to compete for a limited number of visas, allowing them to hire the skilled workers they need more easily.

Changes to the Graduate Route Visa

The UK government has also introduced a new Graduate Route Visa, which will allow international students to stay in the UK for up to two years after completing their studies. This will help the UK to attract and retain talented graduates from around the world, and enable them to contribute to the UK economy.

To be eligible for the Graduate Route Visa, students will need to have successfully completed a degree at a UK university, and have a valid Tier 4 student visa at the time of their application. They will also need to have passed a security clearance check, and meet the English language requirement.

Changes to the Youth Mobility Scheme

The Youth Mobility Scheme has also undergone some changes, with two new countries being added to the list of eligible countries. This means that young people from Ukraine and Thailand can now apply for the scheme, which allows them to live and work in the UK for up to two years.

To be eligible for the Youth Mobility Scheme, applicants must be aged between 18-30, and have a certain amount of savings in their bank account. They must also meet the English language requirement, and have no children or dependents.

Conclusion

The new changes to the UK immigration rules are aimed at making the visa process more accessible and efficient for skilled workers and students from around the world. By introducing new visa routes and removing some of the previous barriers, the UK is positioning itself as an attractive destination for talent from around the world.