UK unveils new point-based immigration system

• It will treat both EU and non-EU citizens equally, giving top priority to those with the highest skills and the greatest talents, including scientists, innovators and academics.
• The minimum general salary threshold will be reduced to £25,600 (over RS 5 million), down from the previously proposed £30,000.
• “We will attract the brightest and the best from around the globe, boosting the economy and our communities, and unleash this country’s full potential,” says UK Home Secretary.

The United Kingdom has unveiled new points-based immigration system with an aim to attract the brightest and the best from around the world.

Under this new immigration system, the applicants will be awarded points for specific skills, professions, salaries or qualifications/attributes, and visas will be awarded to those who gain sufficient points.

The system will provide simple, effective, and flexible arrangements for skilled workers to come to the UK.

It will treat both EU and non-EU citizens equally, giving top priority to those with the highest skills and the greatest talents, including scientists, innovators and academics.

The minimum general salary threshold will be reduced to £25,600 (over RS 5 million), down from the previously proposed £30,000.

UK Home Secretary Priti Patel will also announce a reformed Global Talent route. This will include a new fast-track scheme for world-leading scientists, top researchers and mathematicians to come to the country. This will also run alongside new Immigration System.

He said, “Today is a historic moment for the whole country. We will attract the brightest and the best from around the globe, boosting the economy and our communities, and unleash this country’s full potential.”

The UK Home Office will publish further details on the system in due course, including detailed guidance regarding the points tables, shortage occupations and qualifications.

These new arrangements will take effect from 1 January 2021, once freedom of movement with the European Union has ended.