In February 2020 the Government announced plans for a new Points Based System following the UK’s official exit from the EU. The new Points Based System will be open to all migrant workers and students, regardless of whether they are from outside the EU or not, as free movement for EEA nationals will come to an end. EU nationals will, therefore, be treated the same as non-EEA nationals currently are and they will have to demonstrate to the Home Office that they can get the required points for their visa. The new Points Based System in the UK will be open to applications from autumn 2020 for applications from 1 January 2021 and the Home Office will be updating their page as and when further information on the new visa requirements are announced and applicants can sign up to get email alerts directly from the Government in respect of this. Our business immigration solicitors in London are experts in Points Based System and Appendix W applications and are always kept up to date on the latest changes to the Immigration Rules. Using our knowledge and experience, we are able to advise on even the most complex cases and are happy to arrange a consultation with our solicitors in order to discuss any case in more detail. Please contact us today to find out more about our bespoke service.
What is the New Points Based System for sponsored workers?
The New Points Based System will include a route for skilled workers who have a job offer from an approved sponsor (similar to the current Tier 2 visa route). From January 2021, the job that is offered will need to be at a required skill level of RQF3 or above which is the equivalent to A-levels. This is a massive change from the current Tier 2 requirement of the required skill level of RQF6 or above. Applicants will also need to be able to speak English. The minimum general salary threshold will be reduced to £25,600. If an applicant will earn less than this but no less than £20,480, they may still be able to apply by ‘trading’ points on specific categories against their salary. Employers who are planning to sponsor skilled migrants from 2021, and are not currently a Tier 2 or Tier 5 sponsor, then they should consider applying for a sponsor licence now. As with the current points-based system, the new system will also not have a visa route for low skilled workers. However, the seasonal agricultural visa pilot scheme will be expanded in order to recognise the significant reliance this sector has on low-skilled temporary workers.
What is the New Points Based System for international students?
EEA nationals who wish to study in the UK in 2021 will need to apply using the same route as non-EEA national students on the current Tier 4 (General) route. They must be offered a place on a course at a sponsored institution, they must be able to speak, read, write and understand English and have enough money to support themselves and pay for their course.
A new graduate visa route will also become available to international students who have completed a degree in the UK from summer 2021. They will be able to work or look for work in the UK at any skill level for up to 2 years after their degree has finished.
What will the New Points Based System application process be?
All applicants will be able to apply and pay for the visa online. However, the process for providing biometric information (photographs and fingerprints) will differ depending on whether the applicant is from inside or outside the EEA.
EEA nationals – For most visas they will be able to provide a digital photo of their face using a smartphone app and will not be required to give your fingerprints. For a small number of minor visa routes which the Home Office has said are to be confirmed later this year, EEA nationals may need to go to an overseas visa application centre to have their photograph taken.
Non-EEA nationals – They will continue to submit their fingerprints and a photograph at an overseas visa application centre.
Using our Immigration Solicitors in London to submit a Points Based System Application
Legal representatives, such as our specialist immigration and visa law firm, are qualified to advise you on immigration law and your immigration status. It is possible to instruct an immigration and visa legal representative to submit a points-based system application.
Caseworkers at the Home Office are trained to reject applications which, are improperly prepared, for example by failing to provide the correct supporting evidence. In order to ensure your visa application succeeds, all necessary documents must be provided.
This can be a significant administrative task and you will need to submit the correct documentary evidence. The UK Immigration Rules are complex and a legal representative can help ensure that your points-based system application meets the Immigration Rules.
Successful Points Based System Applications with our Immigration Solicitors in London
Our team of solicitors and barristers are specialist immigration lawyers who act in your best interest. We offer a client-tailored approach from the outset. From the very first meeting, we will be able to advise you in respect of your immigration status and the merit of your visa application before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation and submission of a visa application and ensure that you meet all the requirements of the relevant rules.
We are based in the legal epicentre of London, just across the road from the Royal Courts of Justice in order to ensure we get the best results for our clients. LEXVISA is just minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.
Preparation is the key to a successful points-based system application. Our UK immigration and visa solicitors are here to guide you through the complex immigration rules and requirements. If you wish to meet one of our lawyers, please call our Immigration Team so we can assess your case and arrange your legal consultation.
Contact our London immigration solicitors on 02030110276 or complete our contact form.