UK businesses are now required to pay much bigger salaries to overseas workers coming to the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, as the government clamps down on cut price foreign labour and continues to deliver on its commitment to drive down net migration. This change, driven by the government’s aim to control migration while ensuring fairness, marks a turning point in immigration law.
As part of a robust and fair package of measures announced by the Home Secretary in December, the general salary threshold for those arriving in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa has now increased by 48%, from £26,200 to £38,700. This will mean that 300,000 people who arrived in the UK last year would now not be able to. The goal is to attract highly skilled workers and boost the economy whilst managing migration numbers.
To prevent the undercutting of UK workers, the shortage occupation list has been scrapped. Instead, a new Immigration Salary List (ISL) focuses on skilled roles facing shortages. Employers are urged to invest in training and hiring local talent.
Furthermore, the government’s commitment to supporting the domestic workforce is underscored by the injection of £2.5 billion into the Back to Work plan. This initiative aims to provide essential support to over a million long-term unemployed individuals, facilitating their transition into gainful employment and fostering economic inclusivity.
These changes aim to prioritise domestic talent, ensure fair wages and combat illegal migration. As the UK adjusts its immigration approach, it seeks a balanced, inclusive future.
How Gherson can assist
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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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