In a significant policy shift, the UK government has announced stricter visa regulations aimed at reducing the record-high levels of migration. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak cited the need for change as net migration hit a historic peak. Here’s a succinct overview of the upcoming changes and their context:

Key Changes and Statistics:

Tighter Visa Regulations: New rules increase the salary threshold for work visa applicants to £38,700 from spring 2024.
Family Visa Adjustments: The income requirement for family visas will rise to £38,700 by early 2025, starting at £29,000.
Points-Based System: Applicants will need to score 70 points, with adjustments in the healthcare surcharge and criteria for skilled worker visas.
Shortage Occupation List: The government plans to revise the list, affecting salary thresholds and eligibility.
Migration Figures: The UK saw a net migration of 745,000 in 2022, with a significant majority from outside the EU.

These measures reflect the government’s approach to managing immigration by prioritizing high-skilled workers and tightening family visa requirements. As the UK navigates post-Brexit migration challenges, these rules aim to balance economic needs with public sentiment on immigration levels.

For more detailed insights, refer to the original article here.