Spring 2024 Immigration Rule Changes

On 21^st December 2023 the Home Office released further details on changes to the Immigration Rules set to take effect in Spring 2024. The changes will have a substantial effect on UK businesses and families. 

The anticipated changes are as follows:

• The minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker Visas will rise by almost 50% from £26,200 to £38,700 per year. Health and Care workers and education workers on national pay scale occupations will be exempt. It is anticipated that those already on a skilled worker visa prior to the rule change will be exempt from the salary increase when they apply to extend and settle in the UK.
• The Shortage Occupation List will be replaced with an Immigration Salary List. This will end the 20% going rate salary discount for shortage occupations.
• Health and Care Visa holders will be prevented from bringing family dependents to the UK. It appears that care workers already in the UK on this route prior to the rule change can still apply to bring their dependents whilst on their current visa. Applicants in the UK who switch into this category following the rule change will not be eligible to stay with or apply for their dependents to join them.
• Social care firms in the UK who wish to sponsor Health and Care visa applicants must provide services regulated by the Care Quality Commission. 
• The minimum income requirement for Family Visas will significantly increase. In Spring 2024 this will be increased from £18,600 to £29,000. This is anticipated to rise to £34,500 and finally £38,700 by 2025. There will no longer be a separate child element to the income requirement. It is anticipated that those already on a 5-year family route will not be subjected to the increased financial requirement. Those in the UK who switch into this route after the rule change will be subjected to the new financial requirement. 
• The Graduate Visa route will be reviewed due to questions about its effectiveness.

Further details on the changes may not be released until March 2024. 

Visa applications should be prepared and submitted as soon as possible to avoid being subjected to the stringent new rules. 

For specialist advice and assistance with a UK visa application as a skilled worker or family member of a British citizen or settled person, contact BHD’s Private Immigration Department to find out more about the services and competitive rates we offer.