Following a trend of ongoing changes, UK immigration laws and policies underwent further adjustments in 2023 and will change further in April 2024. From the Youth Mobility Scheme expansion to policy shifts impacting skilled workers, the landscape for those seeking to enter or remain in the UK saw several developments. This post will delve into the significant updates and announcements that unfolded throughout the previous year, offering insights into how they impacted immigration in the UK.
Increase in Skilled Worker Salary Thresholds
In April 2024, the minimum salary thresholds for Skilled Workers will go up. The generic one went up from £26,200 to £38,700.
Revisions to the Youth Mobility Scheme Eligibility and Duration
Citizens of New Zealand were previously eligible to apply for the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS) if they were aged between 18 and 30. The scheme now caters to a broader age group from 18 to 35 years. New Zealanders under this program can now have a visa for three years, which was previously two years. This rule was enacted on 29 June 2023 and has been applied to Australians and Canadians since 31 January 2024. People of the Republic of Korea are now eligible for the new age rule, and the nationals of Andorra and Uruguay have been added to the list of eligible countries for YMS.
Introduction of the Innovator Founder Visa
The UK government introduced the Innovator Founder route in April 2023, allowing entrepreneurs to set up innovative businesses in this country. In contrast to previous categories, the new route eliminates minimum investment requirements and allows innovators to take jobs in skilled roles (RQF Level 3 or above) beyond managing their business operations. The purpose of this pathway is to attract non-UK entrepreneurs interested in doing innovations in the UK.
Supreme Court’s Judgment on the Case Related to Rwanda
In a landmark decision given by the Supreme Court in November 2023, it ruled against the government’s plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda. During the case hearing, the honorable court found that Rwanda is not safe for asylum seekers as they may face harm there after returning.
UKVI Fee Hike
The government hiked the UKVI fees on 4 October 2023. The cost of key application elements increased, such as the Certificate of Sponsorship rising from £199 to £234 and the three-year Skilled Worker visa increasing from £625 to £719 while applying from outside the UK.
These are the five significant of the many major updates that took place in the UK immigration landscape in 2023. We request you to consult with one of our expert solicitors to learn about these developments in detail. We, Intime Solicitors, are a leading firm helping clients with UK immigration appeals and beyond.
From Manchester to Stoke-on-Trent, we have offices in many British cities. We are also located in Chester. So, you can even consider Intime Immigration Limited (Intime Immigration Solicitor) if you are looking for a solicitor for an immigration appeal in Cheshire.
Our team of dedicated lawyers possess the expertise to navigate the intricacies of the immigration process. We’ll work tirelessly to streamline your immigration appeal in the UK and maximize your chances of a successful outcome. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your case.
