New UK Immigration Policies Add Complexity for Key Workers and Students

The UK government has implemented new immigration policies that could complicate status checks for international students and key workers, sparking concerns across sectors.

Impact on International Students

1. Dependants Restricted: From January 1, 2024, most international students are prohibited from bringing family members unless enrolled in postgraduate research programs or receiving government-funded scholarships.

2. Higher Financial Requirements: Students must demonstrate greater financial self-sufficiency to secure visas.

3. Compliance Pressures on Universities: Institutions face stricter standards and risk losing their sponsor licenses if students fail visa checks or leave courses prematurely.

4. Tighter Agent Regulation: The government plans to regulate recruitment agents to prevent exploitation and maintain system integrity.

Challenges for Key Workers

1. Increased Salary Thresholds: The minimum salary for skilled worker visas has risen by nearly 50% to £38,700, affecting sectors such as health and social care.

2. Care Worker Restrictions: Overseas care workers are barred from bringing dependants, and care firms must be regulated by the Care Quality Commission to sponsor visas.

Concerns and Criticism

These changes aim to reduce net migration and tighten immigration controls. However, businesses and educational institutions warn that the measures may hinder the recruitment of international talent, affecting the UK’s economy and global reputation.