The UK has introduced a new Points-Based System (PBS) for immigration following Brexit, affecting how skilled workers from all over the world can enter the UK. While the new system offers good opportunities for skilled professionals, there are some challenges for those with lower skill levels.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the new rules:
Good News for Skilled Workers
Under the new system, skilled workers from any country can apply for a work visa or a Global Talent Visa and, later, apply for Settlement (permanent residence). This is a big opportunity for workers with specialized skills.
How the Points-Based System Works
The system isn’t exactly like Australia’s or Canada’s, but it does use a similar points system. To get a visa, applicants need to earn at least 70 points based on various criteria. Below is a table showing how points are awarded:
| Criteria | Points |
| Job offer from a licensed sponsor | 20 |
| Job at the right skill level (RQF Level 3 or above) | 20 |
| English language proficiency | 10 |
| Salary (£20,480 to £23,039) | 0 |
| Salary (£23,040 to £25,599) | 10 |
| Salary of £25,600 or more | 20 |
| Job in a shortage occupation | 20 |
| PhD in relevant subject | 10 |
| PhD in a STEM subject | 20 |
To qualify for a visa, applicants must meet the requirements for a job offer, skill level, and English language proficiency. If the salary is lower than the threshold, applicants may still qualify by being in a shortage occupation or holding a relevant PhD.
A Small Change for Highly Skilled Workers
The UK government is also considering allowing a small number of highly skilled workers to enter without a job offer. However, this route will be carefully monitored and capped.
Reduced Salary Requirements
The salary threshold for most skilled workers has been reduced to £25,600, but certain jobs in high-demand areas, like nursing, can accept salaries between £20,480 and £25,600.
English Language Requirement
All migrants will need to meet a certain level of English proficiency, which is already required for non-EU applicants. This ensures that all workers, including those from the EU, can effectively communicate in the workplace.
No More Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT)
Employers no longer need to conduct the Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT) to hire someone from outside the UK. This makes it easier for companies to hire skilled workers from abroad.
No Visa for Unskilled Workers
The biggest change is that unskilled workers will no longer be able to come to the UK under the new system. This includes jobs that don’t require qualifications beyond A-levels, like cleaners, care home workers, and delivery drivers.
The UK government believes that businesses should focus on improving staff retention, productivity, and invest more in technology rather than relying on cheap labor from abroad.
However, there will still be a seasonal worker scheme for agriculture, which will be expanded to 10,000 places. This is far below the demand from some industries, but it shows some flexibility for key sectors.
A Challenge for Employers
While the government insists the new system is necessary to encourage businesses to invest in their workforce, there is concern that it may create a shortage of workers in some industries. Many employers argue that they cannot find enough local workers for lower-skilled jobs.
As the economy continues to recover from the effects of Brexit, it’s likely that the government will need to reconsider its stance on unskilled workers, just as other countries like Australia and New Zealand have done.
The new Points-Based System marks a significant shift in the UK’s immigration policy. Skilled workers will find more opportunities, but those in lower-skilled jobs may face challenges. The system is designed to attract talent from around the world while limiting the flow of unskilled workers. Over time, the government may need to adjust its approach to ensure that sectors with labor shortages can still meet demand.
For more guidance on applying for a Skilled Worker Visa, Law and Visas can help you navigate the process and ensure that your application meets all the requirements.
