How will the new immigration rules affect you in 2024?
The UK government has introduced several changes to the immigration rules that will come into effect in 2024. These changes are part of the government’s plan to attract talent, innovation and investment to the UK, as well as to simplify and streamline the immigration system. Some of the key changes are:
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme: This is a new scheme that will require most visitors and transit passengers to obtain an online authorisation before travelling to the UK. The ETA will cost £9 and will be valid for multiple entries for up to two years. The ETA will not replace visas for those who need them, but will be an additional requirement for visa-free nationals. The ETA scheme will be launched in phases from late 2023.
Innovator Founder Visa: This is a new visa route that will replace the Start-up Visa route, which will close on 31 December 2023. The Innovator Founder Visa will allow entrepreneurs with innovative, viable and scalable business ideas to come to the UK and set up their businesses. Applicants will need to have at least £50,000 in investment funds and an endorsement from an approved body. The visa will be valid for three years and can lead to settlement after three years of continuous residence.
Scale-up Visa: This is a new visa route that will allow individuals with high-skilled jobs at UK scale-ups to come to the UK without a sponsor. A scale-up is defined as a business that has experienced an annual average growth in employees or turnover of at least 20% over a three-year period. Applicants will need to have a job offer from a UK scale-up that pays at least £75,000 per year and meets the skill level requirement. The visa will be valid for up to five years and can be extended or switched to other routes.
Skilled Worker Visa: This is an existing visa route that allows individuals with skilled jobs and a sponsor to come to the UK. The government has increased the minimum salary rates for this route by 15%, which means that applicants will need to earn at least £27,000 per year or the going rate for their occupation, whichever is higher. The government has also updated the Shortage Occupation List, which gives priority to certain occupations that are in high demand in the UK.
Student Visa: This is an existing visa route that allows individuals to study in the UK at an approved institution. The government has made some changes to this route, such as allowing students who have completed their course of study to switch to a work visa route in-country if they meet certain conditions, such as having a job offer from a UK employer or being endorsed by an approved body. The government has also restricted the ability of student dependants to work in the UK, which means that they will only be able to work if they are studying at degree level or above at a higher education institution with a track record of compliance.
These are some of the major changes that will affect visitors, students, workers, family members, settlers and citizens who apply for visas from outside the UK in 2024. If you are planning to travel, study or work in the UK, you should check the latest immigration rules and guidance before you apply. You can also contact us for expert advice and assistance with your visa application. We are here to help you navigate the complex and changing immigration system in the UK.
