The UK Tier 2 visa, now known as the Skilled Worker visa, has undergone several updates in recent years, especially after Brexit and the UK’s shift to a points-based immigration system. These changes affect how non-UK residents can work in the UK and what employers need to do to hire skilled workers from abroad. Here’s a rundown of the key updates:
1. Transition from Tier 2 to Skilled Worker Visa
The Tier 2 visa was rebranded as the Skilled Worker visa in December 2020. This change aligns with the UK’s new immigration system, aimed at attracting skilled talent from around the world, regardless of nationality. The Skilled Worker visa is now the primary route for skilled workers seeking to live and work in the UK.
Key Point: Applicants must meet a minimum salary threshold, have a job offer from a licensed UK employer, and demonstrate proficiency in English.
2. Points-Based System
The UK’s immigration system is now fully points-based. Applicants for the Skilled Worker visa must score at least 70 points to qualify. Points are awarded based on factors such as:
- Having a valid job offer from an approved sponsor (20 points)
- A job at an appropriate skill level (20 points)
- English language proficiency (10 points)
- Salary level, which must meet the required threshold (10 to 20 points)
Additional points can be earned for higher salaries, shortage occupation roles, or holding a PhD relevant to the job.
3. Lower Salary Threshold
One of the significant changes is the reduction of the salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas. Previously, Tier 2 applicants needed to meet a minimum salary of £30,000. However, under the new system, the threshold is reduced to £25,600, or even lower in some cases, such as for jobs in shortage occupations.
Key Point: Applicants with a salary below £25,600 can still apply if they meet certain conditions, like working in a shortage occupation or holding a relevant PhD.
4. Skilled Worker Shortage Occupation List
The shortage occupation list highlights sectors that face labor shortages in the UK. Applicants applying for roles on this list may benefit from:
- A lower salary threshold
- Fewer restrictions on visas
- Priority processing
Occupations in fields like healthcare, engineering, IT, and certain academic roles are regularly included on the list.
5. No Cap on the Number of Visas
One of the major changes under the new system is the removal of the annual cap on the number of Skilled Worker visas. This means there is no longer a limit on how many skilled workers can come to the UK each year, making the process more flexible for both employers and applicants.
Key Point: Employers no longer need to worry about restrictions on the number of skilled workers they can sponsor annually.
6. Removal of the Resident Labour Market Test
Previously, employers were required to advertise a job locally for at least 28 days to prove there were no suitable candidates within the UK or the European Economic Area (EEA). This requirement, known as the Resident Labour Market Test, has been removed. Employers can now directly hire from overseas without demonstrating that they tried to recruit locally first.
7. Visa Duration and Path to Settlement
The Skilled Worker visa can be granted for up to 5 years, and visa holders can apply for indefinite leave to remain (permanent residency) after 5 years, provided they meet certain requirements, including salary and employment continuity.
8. Visa Fees and Health Surcharge
The visa fees for a Skilled Worker visa depend on the length of stay and whether the applicant’s role is on the shortage occupation list. Additionally, applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay. This fee is typically £624 per year, although discounts are available for certain applicants.
9. Increased Employer Sponsorship Responsibilities
UK employers who wish to sponsor skilled workers must be approved by the Home Office and hold a Sponsor Licence. Employers are responsible for ensuring that sponsored employees adhere to visa conditions, and they must report any changes in the worker’s circumstances, such as a change of job title, salary, or working hours.
CONCLUSION
The UK’s Skilled Worker visa offers greater flexibility and opportunities for skilled workers around the world to work in the UK, with easier requirements for employers to hire international talent. Key updates include the points-based system, a lower salary threshold, and the removal of the Resident Labour Market Test. For businesses and applicants, these changes are designed to streamline the process while still attracting top talent to the UK.
