UK Govt May Increase Minimum Salary Requirement For Work Visas

The UK government is contemplating raising the salary requirement for obtaining a work visa, a move aimed at curbing net migration and aligning the immigration system with public expectations.

The proposed change, currently under review, is expected to be formally announced this week as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to reduce net migration levels.

Current Wage Requirements and Proposed Changes

As it stands, non-shortage occupation workers need a minimum salary of £26,200 to secure jobs in the UK, a figure notably below the proposed new threshold.

The potential adjustment underscores the government’s commitment to addressing concerns about immigration levels, particularly within skilled worker categories.

Migration Data and Government Pledge

Anticipation surrounds this week’s net migration data for the year ending June 2023, expected to reveal levels around 500,000—a figure significantly higher than pre-Brexit levels.

This surge has prompted the government to consider measures aligned with its 2019 manifesto pledge to reduce overall net migration.

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Government Push for Reforms

Government figures, including Immigration Minister Robert Jenrick, have championed the push for migration reforms.

Jenrick recently expressed concern about the perceived failure to fulfil promises of controlled migration, emphasizing the need for fundamental reform and urging urgent action to align the migration system with public expectations.

Proposal Details and Potential Impacts

While specific details of the proposal are under consideration, there’s a likelihood that ministers will agree to raise the salary threshold for skilled workers to approximately the median wage of £33,000.

However, uncertainties persist regarding potential restrictions on foreign care workers and migrants bringing their families to the UK.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak has reportedly resisted further constraints on foreign students, aside from the existing ban on postgraduate students, out of concern for deterring highly skilled individuals who could contribute to economic growth.

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Expert Perspectives

Experts highlight that the proposed wage requirement, if implemented, could impact private businesses, with care workers being a focal point of discussion due to their current classification as a shortage occupation.

The Oxford University Migration Observatory notes that the threshold has not kept pace with inflation and, if adjusted for rising wages, would now stand at around £30,000.

Conclusion

The proposed salary threshold represents one step in the government’s efforts to address immigration concerns. However, it is likely that further measures will be considered in the coming months as the government seeks to strike a balance between immigration control and economic growth.

The impact of these proposed changes will be closely monitored as they unfold.