Key Takeaways:
- UK immigration law has undergone major changes after Brexit, including the end of free movement for EU citizens.
- The new points-based system assigns visas based on skills, qualifications, salaries, and professions, treating EU and non-EU citizens equally.
- EU citizens living in the UK before 31st December 2020 can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue residing and working in the country.
Navigating UK Immigration Law after Brexit: What You Need to Know
The landscape of UK immigration law has transformed significantly in the wake of Brexit, bringing about major reformations and new requirements for those looking to enter or remain in the country. If you’re considering moving to the UK for work, study, or residency, understanding these post-Brexit immigration changes is pivotal.
The Brexit Impact on UK Visas
One of the most profound effects of Brexit is the end of the free movement between the UK and the European Union (EU). Consequently, EU citizens no longer enjoy the same rights to live and work in the UK as they did pre-Brexit. This change has introduced a new points-based system that treats EU and non-EU citizens equally.
The Points-Based Immigration System
Since January 2021, the UK government has implemented a points-based immigration system. This system assigns points for specific skills, qualifications, salaries, and professions, and visas are awarded to those who meet a certain points threshold. Here are some of the key components:
- Skilled Worker Visa: The Skilled Worker Visa has replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. Applicants must have a job offer from an approved employer, meet the English language requirement, and earn at least the minimum salary threshold.
- Global Talent Visa: This visa option is designed for individuals who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, or digital technology.
- Student Visa: The Student Visa has replaced the Tier 4 (General) student visa, and applicants must have an offer from an approved educational institution and meet other eligibility criteria including financial requirements.
Post-Brexit Immigration Changes for EU Citizens
EU, EEA (European Economic Area), or Swiss citizens and their family members who were residing in the UK before December 31, 2020, may apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living and working in the UK. The application deadline for this scheme was June 30, 2021, but late applications are still being considered under certain conditions.
Impact on Travel to the UK
Tourists and short-term visitors from the EU can still enter the UK without a visa for stays of up to six months. However, the ability to work, study, or reside in the UK for more than six months will generally require a visa under the new points-based system.
How to Get Advice and Support
The shifting terrain of UK immigration law post-Brexit can be complex, but authoritative guidance is available:
- Official Resources: The UK Visas and Immigration website provides detailed information about the various visa types and application processes.
- Legal Advisors: For personalized advice, an immigration lawyer or advisor registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) can offer expert guidance tailored to your circumstances.
Navigating the post-Brexit landscape of UK immigration law can be a daunting prospect, yet it remains a manageable endeavor with the right information and support. Whether you’re an EU citizen adjusting to new UK visa requirements or an individual from any part of the world aiming to make the UK your home or workspace, staying informed about the latest immigration laws and seeking professional advice will serve you well on your journey.
Expert Insights
Did You Know?
- Immigration and Brexit: The United Kingdom has experienced a significant shift in immigration policy since the Brexit referendum in 2016. While the Brexit impact has primarily focused on EU citizens, it is estimated that non-EU immigration to the UK has actually increased since the referendum.
Changing Demographics: Immigration has played an essential role in shaping the demographics of the United Kingdom. According to the Office for National Statistics, over 14% of the UK’s population is foreign-born, contributing to the country’s cultural diversity and economic growth.
Historical Significance: The Windrush Generation, named after the ship HMT Empire Windrush that brought the first wave of Caribbean immigrants in 1948, holds immense historical importance in UK immigration. These individuals were invited to work in the UK to help rebuild the country after World War II but faced challenges and discrimination upon arrival.
Economic Contribution: Immigrants have made vast economic contributions to the United Kingdom. According to a study by the Centre for Research and Analysis of Migration, immigrants have a positive impact on the UK economy, contributing more in taxes than they receive in public benefits.
Language Diversity: The UK is incredibly linguistically diverse. Apart from English, which is the predominant language, over 300 languages are spoken in the country, including Punjabi, Bengali, Polish, and Gujarati. This linguistic diversity reflects the rich tapestry of immigrant communities in the UK.
Refugee Resettlement: The UK has been a significant destination for refugees seeking safety and protection. In 2019, the UK resettled the highest number of refugees in Europe. Since 2015, the Government’s Vulnerable Persons Resettlement Scheme has provided a lifeline to thousands of vulnerable refugees fleeing conflict or persecution.
Culture and Cuisine: Immigration has greatly influenced British culture and cuisine. The integration of diverse cultures has led to the popularity of dishes such as curry, which has now become a national favorite. Today, the UK boasts a thriving food scene with influences from around the world.
Invention and Innovation: Many significant inventions and innovations in the UK can be attributed to immigrants. From the telephone (invented by Alexander Graham Bell, a Scottish immigrant) to penicillin (discovered by Sir Alexander Fleming, a Scottish immigrant), immigrants have played a vital role in shaping scientific and technological advancements in the country.
Contribution to the NHS: The National Health Service (NHS) in the UK heavily relies on immigrant healthcare professionals. According to the NHS Workforce race equality standard report, roughly one-third of doctors in the NHS are from overseas, contributing their skills and expertise to the healthcare system.
Family Reunification: The UK recognizes the importance of family reunification in immigration policy. British citizens or settled individuals can sponsor their non-EEA (European Economic Area) family members, such as spouses, partners, children, and dependent parents, to join them in the UK under the Family Visa category.
These intriguing facts about immigration in the UK provide a glimpse into the broader historical, cultural, and economic impact of immigration, going beyond the immediate post-Brexit changes. Exploring these aspects helps us appreciate the complexities and benefits that immigration brings to the United Kingdom.
Learn today
Glossary
- Brexit: Refers to the withdrawal of the United Kingdom (UK) from the European Union (EU).
Free Movement: The right of EU citizens to live and work in any EU member state.
Points-Based Immigration System: A system that assigns points to individuals based on specific criteria such as skills, qualifications, salaries, and professions. Visas are awarded to individuals who meet a certain points threshold.
Skilled Worker Visa: A visa category that replaced the Tier 2 (General) work visa. Applicants must have a job offer from an approved employer, meet the English language requirement, and earn at least the minimum salary threshold.
Global Talent Visa: A visa option for individuals who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, or digital technology.
Student Visa: A visa category that replaced the Tier 4 (General) student visa. Applicants must have an offer from an approved educational institution and meet other eligibility criteria, including financial requirements.
EU Settlement Scheme: A scheme that allows EU, EEA (European Economic Area), or Swiss citizens and their family members to apply for settled or pre-settled status to continue living and working in the UK after Brexit.
EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens: Citizens of European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland.
Tourists: Individuals visiting the UK for a short duration, usually for leisure or business purposes.
Short-term visitors: Individuals visiting the UK for a temporary period of time, typically for tourism, business meetings, or conferences.
Official Resources: Refers to the UK Visas and Immigration website, which provides detailed information about visa types and application processes.
Immigration Lawyer or Advisor: A legal professional or advisor registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) who provides expert guidance and personalized advice on immigration matters.
Phew, navigating UK immigration law after Brexit can feel like trying to beat the final boss in a video game! But fear not, my friend! Don’t let all the changes and points-based systems stress you out. Head on over to visaverge.com for more in-depth info and expert advice on all things visa-related. Keep calm and conquer those visa hurdles like a tech-savvy champ!
FAQ’s to know:
FAQ 1: What is the impact of Brexit on UK visas and immigration?
Answer: The impact of Brexit on UK visas and immigration is significant. The end of free movement between the UK and the EU means that EU citizens no longer have the same rights to live and work in the UK. The UK has implemented a points-based immigration system that treats EU and non-EU citizens equally. This system assigns points for skills, qualifications, salaries, and professions, and visas are awarded to those who meet a certain points threshold.
FAQ 2: Can EU citizens continue living and working in the UK after Brexit?
Answer: EU citizens and their family members who were residing in the UK before December 31, 2020, can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living and working in the UK. The application deadline for this scheme was June 30, 2021, but late applications are still being considered under certain conditions.
FAQ 3: What resources are available for obtaining advice and support regarding UK immigration law after Brexit?
Answer: There are various resources available for obtaining advice and support regarding UK immigration law after Brexit. The UK Visas and Immigration website provides detailed information about the different visa types and application processes. Additionally, individuals can seek personalized advice from immigration lawyers or advisors registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) who can offer expert guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
What did you learn? Answer below to know:
Multiple Choice: Which visa type in the UK’s post-Brexit points-based system is designed for those who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, or digital technology?
a) Skilled Worker Visa
b) Global Talent Visa
c) Student Visa
d) Tier 2 (General) work visaTrue or False: EU citizens who were residing in the UK before December 31, 2020, can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme to continue living and working in the UK.
Short Answer: Where can individuals find authoritative information about the various visa types and application processes in the UK?
