Study, work, or be with family: How much will be moving to the UK cost you?
- Costlier visas
The UK government has implemented significant increases in the salary requirements for various visas as part of its efforts to reduce migration to the country.
- Skilled Worker Visas
For most individuals seeking to work in the UK under the points-based system (PBS), a job offers with a minimum salary of £38,700 is now required, representing a nearly 50% increase from the previous minimum of £26,200.
- Exemptions and Concerns
Certain occupations such as those in health and social care, and teachers on national pay scales, are exempt from this threshold.
However, overseas care workers are unable to bring family dependants with them under these rules.
Concerns have been raised about potential family separations due to the increased income requirement.
- Family Visas: Minimum Income Threshold
Individuals must meet a minimum income threshold to live with a relative in the UK for more than six months.
Initially set to rise to £38,700, the government revised the minimum to £29,000 following concerns.
Nevertheless, this threshold is set to increase to £34,500 and then £38,700 in the future.
- Exemptions and Renewals
Renewing an existing family visa does not require meeting the new earnings threshold. However, applicants must demonstrate a good knowledge of English and meet the income requirement.
- Skilled Worker Visa: Getting enough points
Applicants for skilled worker visas need to accumulate 70 points, with 50 points coming from having a job offer above a minimum skill level and proficiency in English.
The remaining 20 points can be obtained from a higher salary, working in a sector with job shortages, or possessing a relevant PhD.
- Shortage Occupation List and Visa Fees
The government's "shortage occupation list" assists employers in filling vacancies in key sectors. However, the list is being reduced, and the rule allowing employers to pay foreign workers 80% of the usual rate has been abolished.
Additionally, visa applicants must pay a healthcare surcharge for each year of their stay, with the standard fee increasing to £1,035 per year from April 2024.
- Student Visas: Changes and Implications
Even though student visas haven't become more expensive, UK has announced changes in who international students are allowed to bring with them.
Effect from January 2024, unless the course is specifically designated as a research program, students are unable to bring their dependants along.
Nevertheless, there remains an opportunity for students who have completed their degree to stay in the UK for a duration of two years, or three years for those with a doctoral degree, under a graduate visa.
Read more on: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/migrate/study-work-or-be-with-family-how-much-will-moving-to-the-uk-cost-you/costlier-visas/slideshow/109246802.cms?from=mdr
