UK: Points-Based Immigration System Updated

The UK has updated its points-based immigration system that went live in 2021. In the system, a worker outside the UK is assessed and scored on criteria related to mandatory and tradeable job skills, salary and language-proficiency requirements. Workers whose points add up to specific thresholds are eligible for a visa. A company must register as a licensed sponsor to hire such workers, but the rules do not apply to those eligible under the EU Settlement Scheme.

As an example, a skilled worker must earn a minimum of 70 points, comprised of mandatory points earned for getting a job offer from an approved sponsor (20), going to a job at an appropriate skill level (20) and speaking a required level of English (10). The remaining 20 points can come from areas such as meeting salary thresholds (10-20), occupations facing a talent shortage (20) and advanced doctorate degrees (10-20). There are several other routes to a visa that may not require company sponsorships. Graduate student qualifications, health and care visas, and intra-company transfers are examples. (See a related article on the Brexit Trade Deal.)

Takeaway: The pandemic taught businesses that much work can be accomplished when workers operate from remote locations. UK-based businesses may engage talent outside the country, but they should consider the new points-based immigration system and how the update may impact the way they hire from the EU. Prepare in advance, knowing registering as a licensed sponsor may take a few months and involve some fees. The government’s Hiring From the EU site and introduction for employers report feature step-by-step guidance to help companies navigate the changes.

UK: Points-Based Immigration System Updated

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