New UK Visa And Immigration Policy August 2024 | Will UK issue Visa? Should you come to UK? #uklife

Introduction

This tutorial outlines the recent changes in UK visa and immigration policies introduced by the new Labour government as of August 2024. It is particularly relevant for individuals planning to migrate to the UK for study, work, or as dependents. Understanding these updates will help you navigate the visa application process effectively.

Chapter 1: Changes to Student Visa Policies

• Dependents Policy:

  • Under the previous Conservative government, dependents (spouse and children) were not allowed for most bachelor's and master's students. Only master's research students could bring dependents.
  • The Labour government is expected to maintain this policy, focusing on reducing net migration by limiting dependent visas.

• Post-Study Work Visa (PSW):

  • The PSW allows graduates to stay in the UK for up to 2 years to seek employment after completing their studies.
  • There were concerns about reducing this duration to 6 months, but the Labour government has confirmed that the 2-year PSW will remain for the time being.
  • This is beneficial for students starting in September 2024 or January 2025.

Chapter 2: Updates on Work Visa Regulations

• Skilled Worker Visa:

  • The minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker Visa has increased from £28,000 to £38,700, which may hinder job opportunities for many applicants, as the average salary in the UK is approximately £33,000.
  • Healthcare professionals are exempt from this higher threshold; specific salary requirements apply, so check these if you're in healthcare.

• Review of Salary Thresholds:

  • The Labour government is considering reviewing the high salary thresholds, which could lead to a potential reduction, making it easier for skilled workers to migrate.

Chapter 3: Skill Improvement Plans

• Skill Improvement Initiatives:
  • The Labour government plans to implement Skill Improvement Plans to train UK residents for roles experiencing shortages.
  • This presents an opportunity for international applicants to enter the UK job market, particularly in healthcare and allied health professions.

Chapter 4: Carer Visa Updates

• Changes to the Carer Visa:
  • The Carer Visa will no longer allow dependents. This decision aims to reduce the influx of unqualified carers, as statistics showed a significant increase in applications.
  • Potential applicants should be mindful that this visa is more restrictive and may limit family reunification.

Chapter 5: Increased Immigration Health Surcharge Fees

• IHS Fee Increase:
  • The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) has risen significantly, now costing around £1,000 per year, which can be a substantial financial burden for long-term visas.
  • Healthcare professionals applying for the Health and Care Worker Visa may be exempt from this fee. Ensure your job offer includes a statement confirming that your role qualifies under this category.

Conclusion

Understanding the recent changes in the UK visa system is crucial for making informed decisions about your migration plans. Key takeaways include:

• Student visas remain strict regarding dependents.
• The PSW duration is safe for now.
• Work visa salary thresholds are high but may be reviewed.
• The introduction of Skill Improvement Plans could create new opportunities.
• Be aware of increased IHS fees and potential exemptions for healthcare roles.

Stay updated on these policies and consider seeking professional advice for tailored guidance on your visa application process.