In a significant move aimed at reforming immigration policies, the government unveiled a new Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules on 14 March 2024. Spanning 289 pages, this detailed document is the second of its kind released this year, outlining substantial reforms as part of the government’s strategic five-point plan. The plan’s core objectives include reducing net migration and tackling misuse within the immigration system, with today’s statement highlighting pivotal changes that will likely impact many.

A central focus of the new changes is the Skilled Worker route. As previously announced by the Home Secretary in December 2023, these adjustments are designed to encourage investment in the resident workforce over dependency on migrant labour. A notable change is the increase in the general salary threshold from £26,200 to £38,700, reflecting median UK earnings in eligible occupations rather than the 25th percentile. Additionally, ‘going rates’ for specific occupations have been adjusted to the median, based on the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) pay data.

For those sponsored under the Health and Care visa or in occupations with going rates set by national pay scales, a separate general threshold of £29,000 will apply, an increase from the previous £26,200. This adjustment is also grounded in the latest ONS pay data and/or updated national pay scales.

Replacing the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), the new ISL aims to offer clarity by identifying occupations eligible for a discounted salary threshold. This list emerges from a review by the independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), which will conduct a full evaluation later in 2024. The ISL retains the 20% discount on the general salary threshold for included occupations but removes the previous discount on the going rate requirement.

A crucial administrative change is the update from SOC 2010 to SOC 2020 codes. This revision will require employers to adapt to new Standard Occupational Classification codes for Certificates of Sponsorship issued from 4 April onwards.

Salary requirements for various work routes have been updated to align with the latest ONS data, affecting thresholds across the Senior or Specialist Worker (Global Business Mobility), Graduate Trainee (Global Business Mobility), and Scale-up routes, among others.

A significant update is the increase in the Minimum Income Requirement for partner and child routes under Appendix FM, set at £29,000 for new applicants from 11 April 2024. This change seeks to align the financial requirement with the new general salary threshold for Skilled Workers, removing the separate child element to ensure fairness.

These comprehensive reforms signify the government’s commitment to a balanced immigration system that prioritises the national workforce while addressing the needs of various sectors. With changes set to take effect from 4 April 2024, individuals and businesses alike must stay informed and prepared to navigate the evolving landscape of UK immigration policy.