1. Reforms to restrict care workers from bringing dependents and a requirement to register with the Care Quality Commission from 11 March 2024;
2. Removing the 20% going rate discount to the salary requirements for shortage occupation workers from 14 March 2024. The Immigration Salary List is set to replace the shortage occupation list from early April 2024;
3. An increase to the minimum Skilled Worker salary from the current £26,200 to £38,700 from 4 April 2024;
4. An increase to the minimum income required for family visas to £29,000 from 11 April 2024. It is important to note that this amount will continue to increase in stages and will finally reach £38,700 by early 2025.
These rules change come on top of other changes already announced, such as the increase of the Immigration Health Surcharge for all visa applicants from 6 February 2024. Also remember, the changes to the civil penalty for employing illegal workers that came into force on 22 January. See more about this topic by reading our article here.
Anyone wishing to apply for a Skilled Worker Visa, particularly one in the Health & Care sector, should be aware of the changes that will affect their applications and potentially their dependents.
Sponsor license holders should understand how this change will affect their new hires. Salaries will need to be reviewed in advance of issuing any Certificates of Sponsorship before the above-announced dates.