The Government has set out the details of its new points-based immigration system which will come into force on 1st January 2021, when freedom of movement with the European Union comes to an end. This is part of a wider multi-year programme of change, led by the Home Office, to transform the operation of the border and immigration system.
According to the Government, the new system will treat EU citizens and non-EU citizens equally. Home Secretary Priti Patel said the scheme will ‘attract the brightest and the best from around the globe, boosting the economy and our communities, and unleash this country’s full potential’.
Commenting on the government’s policy proposals for points-based immigration system, Director General of the British Chamber of Commerce, Dr Adam Marshall said:
“The speed and scale of these changes would require significant adjustment by businesses from Cornwall to Inverness.
“Companies are already investing heavily in home-grown talent across the UK, but critical labour shortages mean firms will still need access to overseas workers at all skill levels.
“The new points system must be able to respond quickly to changing market needs, and the application process must be radically simplified.”
Under the new plans, anyone wanting to work or live in the UK would need 70 points to be eligible to apply for a visa under strict criteria, ranging from salary to speaking English.
Full information of the UK’s points-based immigration system policy statement can be viewed here
