UK's immigration plans are set to significantly impact foreign nationals residing in the UK or out
Channel: Proshine
Date: 28/12/2023

Increased Salary Threshold for Skilled Workers: The salary threshold for foreign workers to access skilled visas has been raised from GBP 26,200 to GBP 38,700. This increase is substantial and will affect many potential migrants who may not meet the new financial requirements.

Changes in Family Visa Rules: The minimum income requirement to bring a family member or partner from abroad has also been increased to £38,700, up from the current threshold of £18,700. This change could impact those planning to bring family members to the UK.

Restrictions on Bringing Family Dependents for Health and Care Workers: Under the new rules, medics on Health and Care visas will no longer be allowed to bring family members to the UK. This could impact many Indian nationals who work in the UK's health sector.

Review and Reduction of the Shortage Occupation List: The government plans to review and reduce the types of jobs on the Shortage Occupation List. Also, the 20% discount on the minimum salary for shortage occupation visas will be eliminated. This could affect those whose occupations were previously considered in shortage but might not be in the future.

Impact on Student Visas: There might be a review of the Graduate Route visa to safeguard the integrity of UK higher education. This could signal a potential crackdown on dependents in that post-study route.

Overall Goal to Reduce Net Migration: These changes are part of the UK government's plan to reduce legal immigration, with an estimated reduction of approximately 300,000 fewer people coming to the UK in the future compared to the previous year.