BCC calls to Scrap Tier 2 Visa Cap in order to boost UK Economy

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has called for the Government to scrap the Tier 2 Visa cap in order to boost the UK economy. We have previously posted that the Tier 2 Visa cap has been reached for almost every month this year and due to mounting pressure the cap temporarily does not apply to NHS doctors and nurses; however, there are now calls for the cap to be lifted completely in order to boost the UK economy.  

Why is the BCC calling for the Tier 2 Visa Cap to be scrapped?

The BCC has just published the results of its Quarterly Economic Survey for Q2 2018. The survey of more than 6,000 UK companies over the second quarter of 2018 has found that economic conditions remain ‘sluggish’ despite the pick-up in the manufacturing industry. It has concluded that the shortage of skilled workers remains a major concern for UK business leaders and has therefore called for the Tier 2 Visa cap to be scrapped.

Adam Marshall, head of the BCC has said:

“The availability of skilled staff remains the biggest issue that firms face. Unless the government gets a handle on the disarray in the training and apprenticeship system […] the economic potential of many areas across the UK will continue to be held back”.  

The importance of training British nationals is acknowledged, however, the need for filling the shortage occupations is essential for the growth and sustainability of the UK economy.

What is the Tier 2 Visa Cap?

The Home Office has a limit on the number of Tier 2 visas for skilled migrant workers that are granted per year. The annual quota is 20,700 Tier 2 visas, which works out to 1,700 Tier 2 visas allocated per month. We have recently posted that the Tier 2 visa cap has been reached for almost every month this year and as a result of growing pressure, Sajid Javid, Home Secretary, has temporarily removed NHS doctors and nurses from the quota. This is a positive for the much burdened NHS, but there are many other sectors who too would like to see the visa cap removed or adjusted to allow more highly skilled migrant workers and in turn boost the UK economy.

What is a Tier 2 Visa?

Non-EEA skilled workers can come and work in the UK on a Tier 2 visa. The migrant worker must first receive a job offer and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a fully licenced Tier 2 employer in the UK before making the Tier 2 visa application. In order to recruit skilled workers from overseas, the Tier 2 Sponsor must satisfy the Resident Labour Market Test or the job must be listed on the Home Office’s official Shortage Occupations List. Jobs that are listed on the Shortage Occupation List are positions where there are gaps in the job market that have not been filled by UK residents.

There are many other stringent requirements that need to be met in order to be granted a Tier 2 visa, such as maintenance, accommodation and English language. The UK’s Immigration Rules can be complex; therefore it is important to seek legal advice from qualified Immigration Solicitors before making any UK visa application. Contact our specialist Immigration Team today to schedule a consultation with our expert Solicitors.

Using Legal Representation to apply for a Tier 2 Visa

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 make Tier 2 visa 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 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 application meets the Immigration Rules.

Successful Tier 2 Visa Applications

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 and immigration application before your matter even reaches the Home Office UK Visa & Immigration department. We can assist you with the preparation of your immigration and 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.  We are minutes away from the Immigration and Asylum Tribunal, the Royal Courts of Justice and other central London courts.

Preparation is the key to successful immigration applications. 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.

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