Effective April 4, 2024, the UK government is set to implement significant changes to the skilled worker visa requirements
Effective April 4, 2024, the UK government is set to implement significant changes to the skilled worker visa requirements, with the minimum salary threshold soaring from £26,200 to £38,700—a whopping 48% increase.
As announced by the Home Secretary and first reported by Ceres on January 30, 2024, these alterations are sparking vigorous debate, especially within the hospitality sector, amid concerns about potential staff shortages.
UKHospitality , a prominent industry body, has emphasised that approximately 95% of the 8,500 skilled visas granted in 2022 for roles such as chefs and managers would not meet the new salary criterion. The hike is part of broader modifications to the UK’s legal migration framework, set to be implemented in the coming weeks.
Key Changes:
• Removal of the 20% ‘going rate’ discount for jobs on the shortage occupation list.
• Introduction of a new immigration salary list in early April.
• Migration Advisory Committee’s recommendations for occupations on the salary list by March 14.
Hospitality-Specific Insights:
In a related move, the Migration Advisory Committee, in October 2023, did not propose adding any hospitality roles to the shortage occupation list. However, it suggested that experienced sommeliers with over three years of full-time experience should qualify for skilled worker visas.
Family Visa Thresholds:
The minimum income threshold for family visas will also increase incrementally, starting from £29,000 on April 11 and reaching £38,700 by early 2025.
Implications for Industries:
These impending changes underscore the evolving landscape of the UK’s migration policy and its potential impact on various industries, particularly hospitality. As the Migration Advisory Committee finalises its recommendations, the hospitality sector must prepare for potential shifts in workforce dynamics.
Source: UK Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold to Increase Significantly on April 4 – Ceres Shop
