Amidst the UK government’s initiative to curb migrant numbers, prospective UK workers must now meet a higher salary threshold to secure a visa. The minimum salary requirement has been raised to £38,700 from the previous £26,200, marking a significant increase of nearly 50%. However, certain professions like healthcare, teaching, and social work are exempt from this requirement. Additionally, migrants under this new rule cannot bring dependents with them.

In response to the growing migrant population, the UK government, led by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, aims to limit migration. The UK recorded 745,000 migrants in 2022, a figure Sunak deemed “far too high.” Notably, skilled work visa grants to India increased by 63% from 13,380 in 2021-22 to 21,837 in 2022-23.

The new norm mandates that individuals applying for work visas through the points-based system (PBS) must secure employment with a higher salary. This points-based system requires applicants to accumulate 70 points, with 50 points allocated for having a job offer above a minimum skill level and proficiency in English. The remaining 20 points can be obtained through factors such as a higher salary or working in sectors with job shortages or possessing a PhD.

Roles will be categorized according to the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) 2020, resulting in changes to occupation code numbers for some roles. The minimum salary threshold will also be determined by the median (50th percentile) of the 2023 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE) data, potentially setting minimum salaries significantly above £38,700 for certain roles.

The Home Office has confirmed the retention of ‘new entrant’ salary discounts for specific skilled work visa applications. This discount lowers the Skilled Worker minimum salary threshold to the higher of £30,960 per year or 70% of the going rate for the applicable SOC 2020 occupation code.

The new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme introduced by the UK government will impact the travel plans of millions of businessmen and tourists. Visitors and transiting individuals not currently requiring a visa for business or tourism must obtain an ETA before traveling to the UK. This requirement applies globally, including to nationals of the EU, US, Canada, and Australia.

Applicants for the ETA must pay a fee of £10 per person, including infants and children. The decision on the application will be communicated via email within three working days of submission. Notably, the ETA is solely a travel authorization and does not grant permission to enter or reside in the UK.

By : Kruthiga V S

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