Brexit has been widely regarded as one of the most significant political events in contemporary European history. The end of free movement of persons between the UK and EU has had major political and economic implications for both parties.
Until the beginning of 2021, UK businesses could choose from a relatively large pool of candidates who did not require visas. British/Irish/EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and all other migrants settled in the UK could start work immediately without having to go through a lengthy and expensive visa process.
Since then, however, the number of available candidates who wish to come to the UK and do not need a visa has shrunk significantly. Now EU/EEA/Swiss nationals without previous ties to the UK require the same immigration documentation as those from all other countries around the globe.
This reduced availability of talent in the UK has made the recruitment marketplace very competitive. Businesses are already struggling to attract potential new employees, and even when they find someone suitable, it is now very likely that their preferred candidate will require a visa.
Until now, many businesses have never had to think about factoring the immigration process into their recruitment timetable or their budgets. Visa applications can routinely take several weeks, sometimes months, and can be expensive. Businesses, therefore, now need to ensure that they obtain a licence to sponsor overseas workers for a work visa so they can offer jobs to their preferred candidates before they sign up with another employer. It is not possible to apply for a work visa for a candidate until the sponsor licence is in place. Most candidates will qualify for a so-called Skilled Worker visa. This is a visa that is tied to the sponsoring business and, if successful, will allow the new employee to come to the UK for up to five years, after which they could qualify for indefinite leave to remain in the UK (i.e. permanent settlement).
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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