Starting January 2021, UK immigration started using a new points-based system for the individuals who wish to live or work in the country. Following the Brexit transition period, any EU individual who was a resident by 31 December 2020 needs to qualify for visas under the new immigration policy. 

In other words, EU citizens will have no special status. Instead, they will be the same way as the rest of the countries. The change was a result of getting control of immigration which the government proposed in the 2016 referendum. 

Now it’s all about collecting points to qualify for the visa. But what are those? Let’s find out below!

What Changed?

The idea behind changing the policy was simple. First, the country wanted to bring in only talented and skilled individuals like scientists, engineers, academics, etc. Second, they wanted to protect the residents from criminal traffickers and unscrupulous employers. 

So, the UK’s point-based system replaced free movement to cater to the needs of highly skilled workers, students, and other specialists like innovators or global leaders. The country wishes to shift the focus from cheap labor and concentrate on technology and automation. 

The Settlement Scheme for EU citizens that came into effect in March 2019 will allow employers to meet their labor market demands. 

Here’s How the Individuals Can Earn Points

To qualify for the new policy, the migrant workers will require a minimum of 70 points. For instance, having a job offer from an approved employer will help you earn 40 points. And if you can speak English, it will help you qualify for 70 points. In addition, you can gain the following 20 points if you are due to get paid at least £25,600 a year. Further, having better qualifications like a Ph.D. will get you 10 points extra. And if you hold a Ph.D. in science, technology, engineering, or maths, you have a chance to earn extra 20 points. 

Even if your salary is less than the amount mentioned above, having a job in health or education will earn you 20 points. 

But how can you apply for this visa?

You can apply online or visit a visa application center to prove your identity. You can even contact a UK immigration lawyer who will help you collect all the necessary documents like a certificate of sponsorship and proof of knowledge of English. 

Will it cost you?

Yes, it will depend on the years you will be working in the UK and whether the job qualifies as skilled labor. If your job is not on the list, you’ll have to pay a standard fee between £610 and £1,408 per person. Further, you will also need to pay a health surcharge of around £624 per person per year when you apply. 

In case you don’t qualify, you’ll get a refund of this health surcharge amount. Also, you need to show whether you can support yourselves in the UK, which is around a minimum of £1,270. 

In the End- Exceptions to the Rule

There will be no limit if you wish to go to the UK for study purposes. The new student application system will help you apply six months before starting the course. The country is also planning to launch a new graduate visa in 2021 to allow students to stay in the UK for two years to complete the degree.

Additionally, if you’re applying for a British spouse visa, you only need to meet four criteria: adequate accommodation, English language proficiency, annual income of at least £18,600, and able to demonstrate a genuine relationship. You must contact a lawyer to know more about the intricacies and nitty-gritty details of applying for the visa.

You must contact a lawyer to know more about the intricacies and nitty-gritty details of applying for the visa.