The United Kingdom has announced significant changes to its visa regulations, impacting both foreign caregivers and international students, including those from India.
These changes, aimed at addressing visa abuse and reducing net migration, will have far-reaching effects on various sectors of the UK’s workforce and education system. Here’s a breakdown of the key changes under each visa category;
New Visa Rules for Foreign Caregivers
Effective March 11, 2024, foreign caregivers entering on a Health and Care Worker visa will no longer be eligible to bring spouses, partners, or children with them. This policy targets what the government calls “disproportionate” numbers of dependents accompanying care workers.
Sponsor Scrutiny: Care providers sponsoring migrant workers in England must now register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). This aims to prevent worker exploitation within the care sector.
Response from the Care Sector
Valuable Contribution: The government acknowledges the vital role international care workers play, but emphasizes the need for long-term solutions within the UK workforce.
Domestic Focus: The government is investing in domestic care careers by developing a national career path and new qualifications.
Impact on the Social Care Sector
Care providers in England acting as sponsors for migrants will now be required to register with the Care Quality Commission (CQC), aiming to crack down on worker exploitation and abuse within the sector.
Minister for Social Care Helen Whately highlights the importance of fostering a more ethical and sustainable approach to social care, with reforms focusing on boosting the domestic workforce.
Changes in Student Visa Regulations
The UK government has also initiated a review of the Graduate Route for international students, aiming to prevent abuse and ensure the route attracts the best talent. Indian nationals, representing a significant portion of students granted this visa, will be particularly affected by these changes.
Graduate Route Review: A review of the Graduate Route visa is underway to ensure it attracts high-calibre students and protects the integrity of UK education.
Skilled Worker Salary Threshold Increases
The minimum salary threshold for obtaining a Skilled Worker visa will rise from £26,200 to £38,700 (effective April 4, 2024). The Skilled Worker visa minimum salary will rise by 48%, impacting incoming workers, while the minimum income requirement for family visas will also see a substantial increase by early 2025.
Family Visa Minimum Income
The United Kingdom is also raising the minimum income needed to sponsor family members. Starting at £29,000 in April 2024, it will further increase to £38,700 by early 2025.
Overall Impact
These new regulations represent a significant shift in UK immigration policy. The government aims to achieve a more sustainable immigration system and prioritize ethical recruitment practices. However, the impact on care providers, students, and skilled workers remains to be seen.
