Published: December 3rd, 2020
The UK’s new points-based immigration system has opened for applications – meaning the brightest and the best from around the world can now apply to work in the UK from 1 January 2021.
Under the new system, points will be awarded for a job offer at the appropriate skill level, knowledge of English and being paid a minimum salary. Skilled worker visas will be awarded to those who gain enough points.
The Government says the new immigration rules will ensure that businesses can recruit the most highly qualified from across the globe to drive the economy forwards and keep the UK at the frontier of innovation.
It will also encourage employers to focus on training and investing in the UK workforce, driving productivity and improving opportunities for individuals, especially those impacted by coronavirus.
Home Secretary Priti Patel said: "This simple, effective and flexible system will ensure employers can recruit the skilled workers they need, whilst also encouraging employers to train and invest in the UK’s workforce.
"We are also opening routes for those who have an exceptional talent or show exceptional promise in the fields of engineering, science, tech or culture."
People will normally need to be paid at least £25,600 per year unless the ‘going rate’ for that job is higher.
Applications are made online, and as part of this, people will need to prove their identity and provide their documents.
Once someone outside the UK has gone through all these steps, they will usually get a decision within 3 weeks.
They will need to have enough money to pay the application fee (ranging from £610 to £1,408), the healthcare surcharge (usually £624 per year) and be able to support themselves (usually by having at least £1,270 available).
The visa lasts for up to 5 years before it needs to be extended.
For more details visit https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Alongside the skilled worker visa, a number of other routes have opened.
These include:
The Student route and Child Student route opened on 5 October 2020 to eligible international students from across the globe.
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