The United Kingdom introduced a points-based immigration system at the end of 2019 which will come into effect from January 2021. The new system, it is hoped will provide an opportunity to all immigrants irrespective of the fact where they are from, the focus will be on their skills. The candidates will get points for specific skills, or if they belong to a profession or meet the salary requirements. Points are awarded for English language proficiency and a job offer from an approved employer. Applicants will have to get a total of 70 points to be eligible.
The table below gives the details:
| Category | Maximum points |
| Job offer | 20 points |
| Job at an appropriate skill level | 20 points |
| English speaking skills | 10 points |
| Salary of 26,000 and above or relevant Ph.D. in a STEM subject | 20 points |
| Total | 70 points |
The new system will ensure only highly skilled migrants will get a visa and gives a fair chance to every applicant. Also, the points-based system is transparent. Based on their scores, applicants will know exactly where they stand, and they can determine the areas they need to improve on to score more points.
While the new system will assess both EU and non-EU workers on the same scale, there will be no limit in the number of people who can qualify under the new system.
Points based system and Tier 2 workers
Under the new system, the ‘going rate’ will be counted towards the 70 points required to be eligible for a Tier 2 skilled work visa in the new post-Brexit immigration system.
The ‘going rate’ is the salary threshold specific to an occupation. According to the Migration Advisory Committee, the going rate should be the 25th percentile of the annual earning in a full-time job for that occupation. 25,600 pounds is the general salary threshold.
Under the new system Tier 2 visa applicants can get the required points provided they meet the following requirements:
- 30 points if they have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from their employer
- 10 points if they meet the English language requirements
- 10 points if they have enough funds to support themselves while they are in the UK
The remaining 20 points can be gained if they have a salary that is higher than the minimum threshold of 25,600 pounds.
Apart from this, the system gives permission to workers whose salary is below the ‘going rate’ for an occupation which may be below the salary threshold to still be eligible. Such individuals can apply for a visa provided they have advanced qualifications in their field or desire to work in a field where there is a skill shortage.