On 1st January 2021, the Brexit transition period ends and a new points-based immigration system comes into effect in the UK, bringing a raft of changes that reconfigure the country’s approach to immigration.
How is the new system going to work?
When the UK’s participation in EU freedom of movement ends on 1st January 2021, EU migrants will no longer be allowed to freely travel to the UK to work. Instead, they will be subject to a new points-based system, which requires them to score a minimum of 70 points based on attributes they possess plus a job offer from an approved employer.
What is the points-based system?
The new system is designed to limit the number of ‘low-skilled’ workers who enter the UK. The first 50 points come from non-negotiable requirements:
- A job offer at skill level RQF3 (A-level equivalent) or higher (20 points)
- A job offer from a licensed sponsor (20 points)
- The required standard of English language proficiency (10 points)
Applicants then have to earn at least 20 ‘tradeable points’ from the following characteristics:
- Be a “new entrant” to the labour market (20 points)
- Earn at least £25,600 or the “going rate” for the profession (20 points)
- Have a job offer in a “shortage occupation” (20 points)
- Have a PhD in a relevant non-STEM subject (10 points)
- Have a PhD in a relevant STEM subject (20 points)
How does the salary threshold work?
Under the new system, all persons must earn a minimum of £20,480. In order to score additional ‘tradeable’ points, most applicants need to earn more.
- 10 points for earning more than £23,040 or 90% of the job’s “going rate”
- 20 points for earning more than £25,600 or 100% of the job’s “going rate”.
NHS workers
The new system includes a dedicated Health and Care Visa to give fast-track entry and a discounted fee to NHS workers.
Scarsdale Immigration Solicitors
For advice from Immigration solicitors Manchester, immigration solicitors Rochdale and immigration solicitors Oldham call Scarsdale Oldham Solicitors, Scarsdale Manchester Solicitors and Scarsdale Rochdale Solicitors on 0161 660 6050.
