The Government has released the first details of the new points-based Iimmigration system to apply equally to EU and non-EU citizens from January 2021.
Under the new system:
- UK borders will be closed to non-skilled workers and all migrants will have to speak English.
- Anyone wanting to work in the UK must have a job offer with a minimum salary of £25,600 – though a salary “floor” of £20,480 will be acceptable in special cases where there might be a shortage. This currently includes occupational therapists.
- The new system formalises the NHS Visa which reduces the Tier 2 Visa cost by 50% (around £400-600).
- The Immigration Health Surcharge will still be applied.
- The skills threshold for foreign nationals wanting to work in the UK will be lowered from degree level to A-levels or their equivalent.
Commenting on the announcement, RCOT’s Assistant Director - Professional Practice, Karin Orman said:
“We welcome the clarity from Government on the future of the immigration system. It is positive that the NHS Visa has been formalised and that the fast-tracking and reduced visa costs will apply to EU and non-EU citizens that want to come to the UK to work in the NHS.
“Occupational therapists from overseas should keep in mind that the new rules are not an impediment to working in the UK since the profession is on the shortage occupation list.
“However, there is still work to be done to address barriers to potential overseas NHS staff, such as the Immigration Health Surcharge. Furthermore, the Government’s crackdown on so called "low-skilled" immigration could have significant repercussions for the staffing crisis in social care, which is already heavily reliant on overseas workers on modest and low incomes.”
More information can be found on the Government website.