We expect significant changes in the United Kingdom’s international status and immigration system in the upcoming decade. Boris Johnson firmly establishes control over the UK government. We can only await the consequences of future Brexit negotiations and the UK’s departure from the EU on 31 January 2020.
As part of its electoral manifesto, the Conservative Party revealed its revolutionary plans to modify the immigration system. Such changes include a new NHS visa and a point-based system for visa applications, similar to what is currently in Australia. We can analyze the information heard from UK officials to form a more precise prediction of the upcoming changes.
National Health Services Visa (NHS Visa)
During her speech in the House of Commons, the Queen explained that the new visa would provide expedited entry for qualified doctors, nurses and medical workers to the United Kingdom.
Boris Johnson specified the effects of the plans during the 2019 November general election. The changes he mentioned included a reduction in the cost of a visa for healthcare providers from £928 to £464. The Prime Minister also asserted that the consideration process for these visa types would take two weeks. The minimum salary threshold is currently £30,000. It will also be abolished for skilled migrants who apply for a five-year visa.
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The NHS is currently facing a shortage of qualified nurses and doctors. The reduction in the NHS visa fee is an overall improvement. However, it is unclear whether the cost will stay the same when applying for a three-year and a five-year visa.
Currently, the process of consideration of visas under standard services finishes within 15 business days, and for an additional £220, foreign applicants can get a decision within five business days. The Conservative Party’s goal to consider visa applications for health workers within two weeks would significantly contribute to the growth of the NHS’s workforce.
The previously mentioned abolition of the salary threshold of £30,000 for medical workers, who will apply for five-year visas, will be the most contributing aspect of the new system. Such change will increase the demand for healthcare work placements in the UK and attract qualified medical workers globally.
An additional long-awaited change will be the removal of the annual quota of migrant medical workers entering the UK. It will assist the country’s healthcare system in filling the shortage of healthcare-based labour.
The new points-based immigration system
According to the Queen’s speech, a fairer point-based immigration system will allow skilled workers worldwide to contribute to the UK economy. We already have a point system for applicants who are not EU citizens. Since introducing the point system in 2008, it has become more complex and rigorous.
Our team is ready to provide advice and assistance to enterprises and individuals. We will also keep you updated on the latest developments and report on changes in UK immigration policy. Contact us now to arrange a consultation with one of our immigration specialists.
