New uk work visa rules

The UK has introduced new work visa rules, which came into effect on December 1, 2020. The new rules aim to attract high-skilled workers and reduce the number of low-skilled workers entering the country. Here are the key changes:

New Points-Based System

The UK has introduced a new points-based system, similar to the one used in Australia and Canada. This system assesses applicants based on their skills, qualifications, and experience.

Tiers and Requirements

The new system has three main tiers:

  1. Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent): For highly skilled workers in fields such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), as well as the arts and culture.
    • Requirements: A bachelor's degree or higher, a minimum of 2 years' work experience, and a salary of at least £35,000.
  2. Tier 2 (General): For skilled workers in shortage occupations, such as healthcare, IT, and finance.
    • Requirements: A bachelor's degree or higher, a minimum of 2 years' work experience, and a salary of at least £30,000.
  3. Tier 5 (Temporary Worker): For temporary workers, such as au pairs, volunteers, and seasonal workers.
    • Requirements: Vary depending on the specific category.

Key Changes

  1. Salary Thresholds: The salary threshold for Tier 2 (General) visas has increased to £30,000, and for Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visas, it's £35,000.
  2. English Language Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate a certain level of English language proficiency, which is assessed through a test such as IELTS or TOEFL.
  3. Maintenance Funds: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient maintenance funds to support themselves and their dependents while in the UK.
  4. Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must undergo a health assessment and provide police certificates from their home country and any countries where they've lived for the past 5 years.
  5. Cooling-Off Period: There's a 12-month cooling-off period for applicants who have previously been refused a visa or have overstayed in the UK.

Impact on Current Visa Holders

The new rules do not affect current visa holders, but they may need to apply for a new visa or extension under the new system.

Next Steps

If you're planning to apply for a UK work visa, it's essential to understand the new rules and requirements. You can:

  1. Check the UK Government's website for the latest information on work visas.
  2. Consult with a qualified immigration lawyer or expert.
  3. Ensure you meet the new requirements and have all necessary documents ready.

Remember, the new rules aim to attract high-skilled workers and reduce the number of low-skilled workers entering the country. It's crucial to understand the changes and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth application process.