NEWS Biggest Shake Up To UK Immigration System in 40 Years Posted by on Jun 27, 2008, 09:47

The UK government announced on 16 June the introduction of a new system for assessing highly skilled migrants wanting to come to the UK to work. Tier 1 of the new Australian style points based system (PBS) will come into effect on 30 June.

The points system means only those migrants Britain needs can come to the UK. Tier 1 builds upon the success of the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme and is aimed at attracting applicants who have the very highest skills or who wish to establish themselves in business or to invest in the UK. Further tiers relating to students, workers with a job offer and temporary workers will be rolled out over the next 12 months.

The new system is far easier for applicants to use. They will earn points for their qualifications, previous earnings, competence in English language and ability to support themselves and their dependents. They can calculate, before they make their application, whether their points add up to entry as a highly skilled worker. The system is also more straightforward, what was a two-stage application process now has only one stage - and the initial visa will be granted for three years not two. 

Border and Immigration Minister Liam Byrne said:

“The UK is a fantastic place to work and develop for those with the skills we need.  A points system has worked well in Australia and I think it will work well for Britain.  This is a key part of the huge shake-up to our border security this year.”

The introduction of PBS follows a tightening of British border security arrangements. All visa applicants now have to submit their fingerprints for checking against government databases before visas are approved, severe penalties have been introduced for employers of illegal workers in the UK and a new unified Border force has been established. In addition, since 1 April, applicants who use false documents or deception when making a visa application will face a ban from the UK of up to ten years. 

Prospective applicants will use a self-assessment points calculator (at http://www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/pointscalculator) in order to determine whether they have enough points to make a successful application.

Further information on PBS can be found at www.ukvisas.gov.uk and www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk