The UK’s immigration landscape is set to undergo significant changes as Labour announces its new strategy. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper detailed plans that aim to link skills to sponsorship while retaining many of the strict Immigration Rules introduced by the previous government. This blog highlights the key updates and their potential impact.
Topics Discussed
- Retention of Strict Immigration Rules
- Strengthening the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)
- Review of Key Sectors’ Reliance on International Recruitment
- Pause on Minimum Income Requirement for Partner Visas
- Crackdown on Abuse in Student and Graduate Routes
Retention of Strict Immigration Rules
Labour plans to continue with the majority of the Conservative’s ‘five-point plan’ to reduce net migration. This includes restricting most overseas students from bringing family members, increasing the salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas by 48% from £26,200 to £38,700, and abolishing the 20% going rate discount for shortage occupations. These measures aim to curb immigration abuses and ensure fair treatment of UK workers.
** Check the latest UK Visa Application Fees with V&I UK Visa Application Fees Calculator for free.
Strengthening the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)
Labour intends to enhance the role of the MAC by integrating Home Office staff to work more strategically in forecasting future trends. This move aims to align immigration, skills, and labour market policies more effectively. The MAC will also conduct a review of the reliance on international recruitment in key sectors such as IT and engineering.
Review of Key Sectors’ Reliance on International Recruitment
The MAC will be commissioned to review the reliance of key sectors on international recruitment, starting with IT and engineering. This review aims to provide independent, evidence-based recommendations to inform future immigration policies.
** Willing to migrate to UK? V&I will guide you in the step-by-step process.
Pause on Minimum Income Requirement for Partner Visas
Labour will pause the planned increase in the minimum income requirement for 5-year partner visas at £29,000 while the MAC conducts a review. This is a welcomed development, balancing respect for family life with the economic wellbeing of the UK. The review will include stakeholder engagement and is expected to start within the next few months.
Crackdown on Abuse in Student and Graduate Routes
Labour will continue measures introduced by the previous government to regulate the recruitment of international students and scrutinize financial requirements and English language assessments. This aims to protect the system from exploitation and ensure the integrity of the Graduate route.
** Want to work in UK? V&I is here to help you.
Conclusion
Labour’s new immigration strategy focuses on maintaining strict rules while strategically linking skills to sponsorship. By enhancing the role of the MAC and reviewing key sectors’ reliance on international recruitment, the strategy aims to balance economic needs with fair immigration practices.
For more updates on UK immigration, sign up for our newsletter today.
