The UK Home Office introduced changes to the way migrants enter or remain in the UK for work purposes. The Immigration Rules Appendix Skilled Worker replaced the Tier 2 (General) route and has left many migrants questioning how this impacts them and their application for indefinite leave to remain (“ILR”) in the UK. The good news is that generally, the changes do not impact your settlement rights after 5 years residence as a Tier 2 (general) worker. According to the UK Home Office, by its very definition, a Skilled Worker includes those with permission in the Tier 2 (general) route.

The Skilled Worker route is for European Economic Area (EEA) nationals arriving from 1 January 2021 and nationals of other international countries. The changes to the rules introduced 3 parts to assess the validity of your application, your suitability, and your eligibility. A new tradeable points requirement is introduced alongside mandatory points, which includes a going rate or minimum salary that will apply for your particular occupation code. The previous £35,800 salary threshold for Tier 2 (General) has reduced under the Skilled Worker route. Your sponsoring employer must now pay their skilled worker a salary which equals or exceeds £25,600 per year and the going rate.

The rule changes can be quite confusing for migrants and sponsorship licence holders. We strongly recommend seeking advice from a specialist immigration law firm for your specific queries. Take the stress away from thinking about the constant changes to the immigration rules and leave it all in the capable hands of the experts. We are more than happy to assist you with all your immigration enquiries and concerns. We at Shawstone Associates are proud of our diverse and hardworking migrant community the UK. We are here to help you.