The UK government has recently tightened visa regulations, affecting Indian professionals and students. Here’s a summary of the major changes:
- Dependents for Social Care Workers:
- Starting March 11, 2024, new social care workers cannot bring their immediate family (partners and children) on their Skilled Worker visas.
- This measure is intended to address staffing shortages in the UK’s healthcare sector.
- Higher Salary Requirements for Skilled Workers:
- From April 4, 2024, applicants for a Skilled Worker visa must earn:
- At least £38,700 per year, or
- The “going rate” for the specific job (if it exceeds £38,700)
- This increase could make it more difficult for recent Indian graduates to secure qualifying jobs.
- From April 4, 2024, applicants for a Skilled Worker visa must earn:
- Rising Income Threshold for Spouse/Partner Visas:
- The minimum income requirement for sponsoring a spouse or partner will be:
- £29,000 starting April 11, 2024
- Approximately £34,500 later in 2024
- £38,700 by early 2025
- The minimum income requirement for sponsoring a spouse or partner will be:
Impact on Indian Professionals and Students:
- These changes might discourage Indian professionals, particularly those in social care or entry-level roles, from seeking opportunities in the UK.
- Recent Indian graduates may struggle to meet the increased salary requirements for post-graduation employment.
Future Considerations:
- The long-term effects on the Indian workforce in the UK are yet to be determined.
- Indian students and professionals should thoroughly investigate visa requirements and consider alternative options if needed.