UK Visa Changes: Prepare for Spring 2024!

The SmartMove2UK

In recent developments, the Home Secretary has outlined a strategic plan aimed at significantly reducing migration levels and addressing the misuse of the immigration system. These measures mark the most substantial decrease in net migration to date, with approximately 300,000 individuals who arrived in the UK last year no longer eligible to enter.

Now, let's break down these key measures:

1. Ending Entry of Dependents: The strategy puts an end to the entry of dependants arriving in the UK.
2. Elevating Minimum Salaries: Minimum salaries for overseas workers and British or settled individuals sponsoring family members will see a significant increase.
3. Addressing Exploitation: The measures aim to address issues of exploitation within the immigration system.

According to the Home Office, in the year ending September 2023, a total of 101,000 Health and Care visas were issued to workers in the health and care sector, with an additional 120,000 visas granted to dependants.

Let's fast forward to the anticipated changes scheduled to take effect from April 2024

1. Increased Earning Threshold for Skilled Workers: The earning threshold for overseas skilled workers will rise from £26,200 to £38,700.
2. Higher Minimum Income for Family Members: British citizens and settled individuals wanting their family members to join them will see the minimum income requirement increase from £18,600 p.a. to £38,700.
3. Changes in Shortage Occupation List: The 20% going rate salary reduction for jobs in the shortage occupation list will come to an end.
4. Graduate Visa Route Review: The Graduate (post study work) visa route is under review.

These changes are expected to have a profound impact on net migration.

Notably, starting January 2024, student visa holders can no longer apply for dependents. This group constituted 153,000 visas granted for student dependents in September 2023.

A crucial reminder for UK visa applicants: the immigration health surcharge will see a substantial increase from £624 to £1,035 per year starting January 2024.

That wraps up our exploration of the significant changes in the UK visa landscape.

You can also read about the Upcoming UK Visa Rules Here...

https://smartmove2uk.com/new-uk-visa-rules-significant-changes-ahead/