The UK government has recently changed the immigration rules for skilled workers coming to the UK. With these changes, employers must ensure they comply with the new regulations, and employees must be aware of the latest updates. We will discuss the recent updates on the skilled worker visa for UK and Sponsor Licence in April 2023.
Skilled Worker Visa Latest Guidelines
The Skilled Worker Visa enables non-UK citizens to work in the UK if they get a job offer from a UK employer. The latest guidelines introduced in April 2023 require applicants to have a minimum salary of £26,200 per annum, or the going rate for the job they are applying for, whichever is higher. This requirement ensures that employers are not hiring foreign workers to save money on wages.
Another significant change to the Skilled Worker Visa guidelines is the removal of the cap on the number of visas issued each year. Any number of skilled workers can apply for a visa as long as they meet the eligibility criteria.
Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Guidance
Employers must have a valid Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence to employ a skilled worker. The recent updates to the Sponsor Licence guidance aim to make the application process more streamlined and accessible. The new guidance provides detailed instructions on applying for a Sponsor Licence, including the required documents and fees.
Sponsor Licence UK Application
The Skilled Worker Sponsor Licenceuk application involves online application form submission and supporting documents. The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will then review the application and may conduct a compliance visit to ensure that the employer meets the required standards. The recent updates to the Sponsor Licence guidance also include information on preparing for a compliance visit.
Sponsor Licence and Compliance Visit
A compliance visit is an inspection by UKVI officials to ensure the employer meets their Sponsor License requirements. During the visit, the officials may ask to see the employer’s records, interview employees, and check that the sponsored workers get paid appropriate wages.
Sponsor Licence Management System
The Sponsor Licence Management System is an online portal allowing employers to manage their licenses. The recent updates to the system have made it more user-friendly and efficient. Employers can use the system to update their details, add new workers, and track their compliance with the Sponsor Licence requirements.
Skilled Worker Visa Latest Updates
The latest updates to the Skilled Worker Visa include changes to the eligibility criteria for social and healthcare workers. From April 2023, these workers can apply for a visa under the Health and Care Visa category. This new category aims to make it easier for social and healthcare workers to come to the UK, as these professions currently face a shortage of skilled workers.
Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence Recent Updates
The recent updates to the Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence include changes to the fees charged by UKVI. From April 2023, the fees for a Sponsor Licence application will increase by 20%, and the renewal fees will increase by 20%. However, the fees for adding a new worker to an existing Sponsor Licence will remain the same.
Skilled Worker Updates 2023
The updated Skilled Worker Visa and Sponsor Licence guidelines in April 2023 aim to create a more transparent and equitable immigration system. They are removing the cap on Skilled Worker Visas, and many skilled workers can apply for a visa if they meet the eligibility criteria. The changes to the Sponsor Licence guidance and management system aim to make the application process more accessible and efficient for employers.
Social Worker Visa Changes
The UK government has also announced changes to the Social Worker Visa requirements. From April 2023, social workers who wish to work in the UK must have a social work degree and register with the relevant professional body. This change intends to ensure that social workers in the UK meet the same standards as those trained in the UK.
Healthcare Worker Visa Changes
The UK government has also announced changes to the Healthcare Worker Visa requirements. From April 2023, healthcare workers who want to work in the UK must have a job offer from a UK employer operating in the health and care sector. This change intends to ensure that the UK’s health and care sector can access the skilled workers it needs.
Sponsor Licence Updates
Significant changes to the minimum pay rates for workers sponsored under a Skilled Worker Sponsor Licence are in the Sponsor Licence Updates for April 2023. The Home Office has also announced updates to the immigration and nationality fees, including changes in fees for the Skilled Worker category. These updates may impact the recruitment and sponsorship of skilled workers in the UK.
Additionally, starting on August 27, 2023, Health and Care Workers can take on a second job on Shortage Occupation List or in the same occupation code as their primary job for 20 hours per week without updating their visa. Employers must take note of this change to ensure compliance with the regulations.
Moreover, the Home Office expects to commence the initial stages of the permission to travel scheme in 2023, which will eventually require all travelers to need a British or Irish passport, eVisa, or Electronic Travel Authorisation to enter the UK. This change will significantly impact international travelers and employers who sponsor overseas workers.
How Osbourne Pinner Can Help You?
The recent updates on Sponsor Licence and Skilled Worker Visa in April 2023 are significant for employers looking to sponsor skilled workers in the UK. The changes to the minimum pay rates, immigration fees, and additional paid work for Health and Care Workers may impact recruitment and sponsorship.
Employers must stay updated with the latest guidelines, guidance, and Skilled Worker Visa and Sponsor Licence updates. Employers must ensure compliance with the rules, use the Sponsor Licence Management System, and prepare for changes such as the permission to travel scheme in 2023. By doing so, employers can avoid severe consequences and benefit from accessing the global talent market through Skilled Worker Visa for the UK.
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