At the start of October, the UK Government announced plans for a new immigration system. The so-called ‘points-based’ system would move towards the existing immigration process in Australia, as confirmed by Home Secretary Priti Patel in her speech at the Conservative Party Conference.
What is a points-based system?
As the name suggests, a points-based immigration system works by awarding points to people applying to live in the UK. Applicants would need to meet a minimum score to gain entry to the country, with their entry based on merit in several areas.
The UK does already have a ‘points-based’ system for migrants outside the European Union (EU). However, it has often been described as points-based in name only, because of the number of extra concessions that are made.
Australian points-based system
In the UK, the points-based system is generally discussed with reference to the system in Australia, where points are awarded for:
- Age
- Job
- Proficiency in English
- Skills
- Education & Qualifications
- Spouse skills and qualifications
- Sponsorship
Would it be the same in Britain?
Plans may vary in the UK, depending on the specific needs of the country. The idea is to tailor the points to areas where Britain would benefit the most. So, if a country needed more young people, they would award more points to younger applicants based on their age.
In the existing Australian system, for instance, applicants aged 25-32 gain maximum points for that category. Presumably because that’s the age at which people are fully skilled and qualified for their career, but still young enough to offer the majority of their career to the country they’re migrating to.
When will it happen?
According to Home Secretary Priti Patel, the new system would be brought in once Britain leaves the EU. Rather than the existing system which has special conditions for EU migrants, all immigration applications would be treated equally through the points-based system.
Expert assistance with immigration
Whether it’s tiered immigration or a points-based system, immigration can be complex. At Osbourne Pinner Solicitors, we aim to take the hassle out of immigration for our clients, with expert support every step of the way. For help and advice with your application, call us on 0203 983 5080 or email [email protected]. We look forward to hearing from you.
