Three years after Brexit, the United Kingdom (UK) Government has sought to change policies that previously favored the European Union (EU), to prioritize the interests of its people. Particularly in the long-debated issue of the immigration and security crisis in Europe. The UK immigration system implemented in 2021 focuses on bringing more skilled workers into the UK to contribute to the economy. The UK has tightened its immigration policies, treating citizens of non-EU and EU countries equally and preventing low-skilled workers and dependents from entering the UK. The aim is to curb excessive immigration.

POINT-BASED IMMIGRATION SYSTEM 

In 2021, the points-based system was implemented as a way to assess the eligibility of citizens who planned to work in the UK. Applicants need specific requirements to earn points to gain access to the skilled worker Visa. The criteria include; Skilled workers who wish to immigrate to the UK must demonstrate that they have a job offer from an approved employer or sponsor. The Job must have the required skill level and be under the category of Shortage Occupations, a list of occupations where employers face labor shortage in which hiring migrant workers is justified. The applicants must speak English and meet the minimum salary average of £25,600. Applicants must attain at least 70 points from meeting all requirements to work in the UK. 

REVISED PLANS

James Cleverly, the UK Secretary of State for the Home Department, unveiled a five-point strategy to limit immigration, which included future adjustments to visa regulations. James Cleverly stated at the December 4, 2023, parliamentary debate that the Office of National Statistics reports 672,000 net migrants for the year ended in June 2023. The modifications will expound on the UK points-based system for skilled immigration. The updated Points-based Immigration System will go into effect in the spring of 2024. Some of the modifications will take effect right away in 2024. The changes include;

  - Dependents of Social workers (spouses and kids)cannot travel with them on their visas.

  - £38,700 will be the minimum salary requirement, a rise from £25,600.

  - There will be a significant decrease in the number of jobs that sponsor foreign workers below the required average income as a result of a review of the shortage occupation list. 

  - The required minimum income to sponsor a spouse will rise from £18,600 to £29, 000, eventually reaching £34, 500.

  - The Graduate Route Visa will be examined by the Migration Advisory Committee to make sure it is not abused.

The exemptions from these changes and financial requirements are the Health care and social Visa holders since they contribute to the healthcare sector of the country.

IMPLICATIONS

The UK is ranked fifth among the major immigration destinations by the World Population Review. The UK's plan to take control of its borders and discourage those who might take advantage of the system and freeload on the social benefits is reflected in the adjustments made to the country's immigration laws. By raising the average salary to 38,700, the UK will attract more foreign investment from visa applicants, which would ultimately result in more money going into the nation's important industries. This plan will guarantee fair distribution of social services while reducing the population. It might also have an impact on the rate of skilled and highly skilled worker migration, which is something the UK needs to support its economy.

In conclusion, the immigration changes will make it challenging for people intending to relocate to the UK. Skilled workers will be compelled to live apart from their families and ensure they meet the income requirement. This will significantly reduce the rate of immigration in the UK. It does, however, challenge prospective visa applicants to reconsider their choices to immigrate or make the necessary adjustments.