In a bid to attract “the brightest and the best from around the world,” the UK Government has announced that applications for skilled workers visas can commence.
This was announced by the UK’s Secretary of State, Priti Patel, in a statement on Tuesday evening.
What you should know
The UK Government had hinted earlier this year that it planned on exiting the European Union, and thereafter, it would introduce a point-based immigration system widely used by both Canada and Australia.
“We are ending free movement and will introduce an Immigration Bill to bring in a firm and fair points-based system that will attract the high-skilled workers we need to contribute to our economy, our communities, and our public services. We intend to create a high wage, high-skill, high productivity economy,” the government stated in February 2020.
The UK disclosed on Tuesday that points would be given to applicants “awarded for a job offer at the appropriate skill level, knowledge of English, and being paid a minimum salary. Skilled worker visas will be awarded to those who gain enough points.”
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It stated that the new immigration scheme would ensure that businesses could hire skilled applicants from across the globe to boost their economy,
“It will also encourage employers to focus on training and investing in the UK workforce, driving productivity and improving opportunities for individuals, especially those impacted by a coronavirus.”
Home Secretary, Rishi Sunak, disclosed that:
- This government promised to end free movement, to take back control of our borders, and to introduce a new points-based immigration system. Today, we have delivered on that promise.
- This simple, effective, and flexible system will ensure employers can recruit the skilled workers they need, whilst also encouraging employers to train and invest in the UK’s workforce.
- We are also opening routes for those who have an exceptional talent or show exceptional promise in the fields of engineering, science, tech, or culture.
(READ MORE: United States announces changes to work permit visas that could affect Nigerians)
Additional details
The skilled worker’s visa lasts for 5 years and can be renewed when expired. It requires applicants to have jobs paying at least £25,600 per year unless the ‘going rate’ for that job is higher.
Applicants will need to prove their identities and provide documents, Also, the process will require 3 weeks for a decision to be made after all necessary documents are provided.
“They will need to have enough money to pay the application fee (ranging from £610 to £1,408), the healthcare surcharge (usually £624 per year) and be able to support themselves (usually by having at least £1,270 available),” the UK government said.
Well William, this is more theoritical than in practice. People like me have qualified as a social worker with MSc Social work certificate, have job offers from different councils, but once I requested sponsorship, the job offers were withdrawn, despite the fact that these Local councils have sponsorship license. This point-based system proposed by the Government has not actually translated to people’s realities.