New UKVI Immigration Rules for 2024
As the year unfolds, the United Kingdom is undergoing significant shifts in its immigration landscape, marked by the implementation of new UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) rules throughout 2024. These regulations, designed to shape the entry and residency criteria for individuals seeking to live and work in the UK, encompass a wide array of changes touching upon salary thresholds, dependant allowances, occupation classifications, and healthcare provisions.
This comprehensive overhaul aims to not only streamline the immigration process but also address pertinent concerns surrounding workforce dynamics, healthcare accessibility, and familial migration. By delving into the intricate details of these freshly minted regulations, we can glean insights into the evolving priorities of the UK government, the implications for prospective migrants and their families, and the broader implications for sectors reliant on international talent.
Salary Requirements Increase
Under the new UKVI immigration rules, starting 4 April 2024, the minimum salary for a Skilled Worker Visa will rise to £38,700 per year. For the Spouse Visa, the salary requirement will increase to £29,000 per year on 11 April 2024. Healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses, and care workers, will see their salary requirement increase to £29,000.
Dependants Restrictions
The new UKVI immigration rules impose restrictions on bringing dependants. Healthcare and care worker visa holders will no longer be allowed to bring their partners and children. Additionally, international students on a student visa will only be able to bring their dependants if they are studying for a PhD or an equivalent research-based higher degree starting 1 January 2024.
Shortage Occupation List (SOL) Reform
The Shortage Occupation List (SOL) will be replaced by the Immigration Salary List (ISL) under the new UKVI immigration rules, featuring fewer eligible occupations. The previous 20% salary discount for shortage occupations will be removed, giving the Home Office greater control over the occupations with lower salary requirements.
Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (IHS)
According to the updated UKVI immigration rules, the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) has increased significantly to £1,035 per year. This change reflects the rising costs of healthcare services for immigrants in the UK.
Skilled Worker Visa Details
New entrants applying for a Skilled Worker Visa will still benefit from a 30% salary discount, requiring a minimum salary of £30,960 from 4 April 2024. Existing visa holders seeking an extension or change of employer will need a minimum salary of £29,000 or the updated going rate for their occupation. The Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) codes will be updated to SOC 2020, affecting which occupations are eligible for sponsorship.
Spouse Visa New Rules
Under the new UKVI immigration rules, first-time spouse visa applicants from 11 April 2024 will need to show their UK partner earns at least £29,000, with further increases expected in the future. If relying on cash savings, the requirement will rise to £88,500. These new income requirements will not apply to those extending an existing spouse visa.
Student Visa Changes
From 1 January 2024, international students studying in the UK under the new UKVI immigration rules will only be able to bring their dependants if they are enrolled in a PhD or equivalent research-based higher degree program. This change aims to control the number of dependants accompanying student visa holders.
Visitor Visas Updates
Effective 7 December 2023, the new UKVI immigration rules expand the range of activities allowed under visitor visas. Visitors will be able to engage in client-facing work and remote work as long as it is incidental to their visit. Additionally, scientists, researchers, legal professionals, and flight crews will have expanded permissions for their activities in the UK.
Long Residence ILR Rules
For those applying for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) under the 10-year long residence route, new UKVI immigration rules require that current permission be held for at least one year before applying. Updated absence limits will also apply, with single absences before 11 April 2024 limited to 184 days and new limits set for periods extending beyond this date.
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Detailed Overview of 2024 UKVI Immigration Rules
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Requirements Increase | - Skilled Worker Visa: £38,700/year from 4 April 2024 - Spouse Visa: £29,000/year from 11 April 2024 - Healthcare Workers: £29,000/year |
| Dependants Restrictions | - Healthcare and Care Workers: Cannot bring dependants - International Students: Only PhD or equivalent can bring dependants from 1 January 2024 |
| Shortage Occupation List Reform | - SOL replaced by Immigration Salary List (ISL) - Fewer eligible occupations - Removal of 20% salary discount for shortage occupations |
| Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) | - Increased to £1,035/year |
| Skilled Worker Visa Details | - New entrants: 30% salary discount, minimum £30,960/year from 4 April 2024 - Extensions/changes: Minimum salary of £29,000 or updated going rate - SOC codes updated to SOC 2020 |
| Spouse Visa New Rules | - First-time applicants: Minimum income £29,000 from 11 April 2024 - Savings requirement: £88,500 - Extensions: Existing visa holders not subject to new income requirements |
| Student Visa Changes | - Dependants: Only PhD or equivalent students can bring dependants from 1 January 2024 |
| Visitor Visas Updates | - Effective 7 December 2023 - Expanded permitted activities: Client-facing work, remote work, scientists, researchers, legal professionals, flight crews |
| Long Residence ILR Rules | - Must hold current permission for at least one year - Absence limits updated: Single absences before 11 April 2024 limited to 184 days |
Conclusion
In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive explanation of the new UKVI immigration rules set to be implemented throughout 2024. By detailing these changes, we strive to offer clarity and guidance to individuals and families navigating the complexities of UK immigration.
Whether you are a prospective skilled worker, a student planning to switch your visa status, or a family member looking to join your loved ones in the UK, understanding these new rules is crucial. For personalized assistance, we recommend consulting with professionals who specialize in these matters. If you have any doubts you can give a call to our study abroad consultants in Kochi and get a support to help you navigate the new UKVI immigration rules effectively.
Source: GOV UK | https://www.gov.uk…migration-measures-further-detail