On 19 February 2020, the government set out the details of the UK’s points-based immigration system.
These new arrangements will take effect from 1 January 2021, once freedom of movement with the European Union (EU) has ended.
It will treat EU and non-EU citizens equally and aims to attract people who can contribute to the UK’s economy. Irish citizens will continue to be able to enter and live in the UK as they do now. Visa application process New immigration routes will open from autumn 2020 for applications to work, live and study in the UK from 1 January 2021. You’ll be able to apply and pay for your visa online. When you apply, you’ll be asked to provide your biometric information.
The process for this is: EU, EEA and Swiss citizens For most visas you’ll provide a digital photo of your face using a smartphone app. You will not have to give your fingerprints. For a small number of minor visa routes (to be confirmed later this year), you’ll need to go to an overseas visa application centre to have your photo taken. Non-EU citizens You’ll continue to submit your fingerprints and a photo at an overseas visa application centre.
Skilled workers The points-based system will include a route for skilled workers who have a job offer from an approved employer sponsor. From January 2021, the job you’re offered will need to be at a required skill level of RQF3 or above (equivalent to A level). You’ll also need to be able to speak English. The minimum general salary threshold will be reduced to £25,600. If you will earn less than this – but no less than £20,480 – you may still be able to apply by ‘trading’ points on specific characteristics against your salary. For example, if you have a job offer in a shortage occupation or have a PhD relevant to the job. Details of how the points system will work are in the policy statement. If you’re an employer planning to sponsor skilled migrants from 2021 and are not currently an approved sponsor, you should consider getting approved now.. Global talent scheme The global talent scheme will be opened up to EU, EEA and Swiss citizens. It will allow highly-skilled scientists and researchers to come to the UK without a job offer.
Lower-skilled workers
There will not be an immigration route specifically for those who do not meet the skills or salary threshold for the skilled worker route. The seasonal agricultural visa pilot scheme will be expanded – recognising the significant reliance this sector has on low-skilled temporary workers. International students and graduates Student visa routes will be opened up to EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens. You’ll be able to apply for a visa to study in the UK if you: have been offered a place on a course can speak, read, write and understand English have enough money to support yourself and pay for your course A new graduate immigration route will be available to international students who have completed a degree in the UK from summer 2021. You’ll be able to work or look for work, in the UK at any skill level for up to 2 years.
Other visa routes
Short-term work visas in specific sectors (the current ‘Tier 5’) and investor, business development, and talent visas (the current ‘Tier 1’) will be opened up to EU citizens.
