UK IMMIGRATION NEWS

Enhancement of Tier 2 eligibility criteria

Friday, 11 September 2009

The UK Border Agency ('UKBA') has announced a range of enhancements to their Tier 2 skilled worker or work permit scheme.

The changes announced by the UKBA, were initially recommended by the government's Migration Advisory Committee, and will work to better control the sectors in which overseas workers are permitted to seek visas and ensure that UK workers also have every opportunity to apply for such roles.

In order to meet Tier 2 criteria, from 2010 all jobs must have been advertised in the UK through Jobcentre Plus for at least four weeks before companies can seek to recruit from outside the EU. For those seeking to come to the UK on the basis of an intra-company transfer, applicants must also have worked for their current employer for at one year – up from the current 6 month standard. The minimum annual salary level permissible under the Tier 2 scheme will also be raised from £17,000 to £20,000.

In announcing the changes, Home Secretary, Mr Alan Johnson said:

"These changes will ensure that businesses can recruit the skilled workers that the economy needs, but not at the expense of British workers, nor as a cheaper alternative to investing in the skills of the existing workforce."

If you are interested in UK Visas, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to the UK.