Introduction
The Home Secretary has revealed a strategy to significantly reduce migration levels and address immigration system misuse, marking the most substantial decrease in net migration to date.
In the year ending September 2023, the Home Office reported issuing 101,000 Health and Care visas to workers and approximately 120,000 visas to their dependants.
The changes scheduled to come into effect from April 2024, include
- The changes introduced from 4 April 2024 included a significant increase in the minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas, which rose from £26,200 to £38,700 per year, or the applicable going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher. However, applicants under the Health and Care visa route were not subject to the full salary increase, as separate salary thresholds apply to eligible healthcare occupations. Following further immigration reforms introduced in 2025, the standard Skilled Worker salary threshold was increased again to £41,700 per year, meaning that most Skilled Worker applicants must now be paid at least £41,700 or the occupation-specific going rate, whichever is higher.
- The minimum income requirement for British citizens and individuals with Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) sponsoring a partner or spouse was increased from £18,600 per year to £29,000 per year for new applications submitted from 11 April 2024.
- End the 20% going rate salary reduction for jobs in the shortage occupations
- Review the Graduate (post study work) visa route
Furthermore, starting January 2024, student visa holders can no longer apply for dependents, this is likely to reduce the 153,000 visas granted for student dependents in September 2023.
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) was increased from £624 to £1,035 per year for most adult visa applicants, with the revised rate coming into effect for applications submitted on or after 6 February 2024.
Stay Informed and Prepared: Consult UK Immigration Experts
For those planning a move to the UK, Stay informed about the latest UK immigration changes! Prepare for the future by knowing how these changes may affect you.
At Conroy Baker Ltd, we are dedicated to aiding you through these transitions.
For expert advice contact ConroyBaker’s specialized UK immigration lawyer on +44 203 773 2948 or [email protected] to book a consultation.
