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Things You Must Know About UK Immigration

Things You Must Know About UK Immigration

Introduction

Immigration to the United Kingdom has been a topic of debate for many years. Some argue that immigration benefits the country’s economy and cultural diversity, while others are concerned about the negative impact it could have on jobs and national security. However, it is not always easy to navigate the complex and often changing UK immigration system. In this article, we will explore some essential things you need to know about UK immigration.

Brexit and Immigration

Brexit, the UK’s exit from the European Union (EU), has had significant implications for immigration. Until December 31, 2020, EU citizens had the right to move to the UK. However, the new points-based immigration system, which came into force on January 1, 2021, now applies to all foreign nationals, including EU citizens. This means that EU citizens who want to work or study in the UK must meet the same requirements as non-EU citizens.

The points-based immigration system

The UK immigration system uses a points-based system to determine who can come to the country and for how long. The system awards points based on various factors such as age, qualifications, work experience, language skills, and salary. To obtain a visa, individuals must score enough points to meet the eligibility criteria for the type of visa they are applying for.

There are several types of visas available under the points-based system, including:

1. Skilled Worker Visa

The skilled worker visa is for individuals with a job offer from a UK employer who has a sponsor license. The applicant must meet several requirements, including having a job offer that meets the minimum salary threshold of £25,600 per annum or the going rate for the specific role, whichever is higher. They must also pass an English language test and criminal record check.

2. Global Talent Visa

The global talent visa is for highly skilled individuals in the fields of science, humanities, engineering, the arts, and digital technology. The applicant must be endorsed by a recognized UK body in their field of expertise and meet specific criteria, such as having a significant track record of achievements.

3. Student Visa

The student visa is for individuals who want to study at a UK university or educational institution. They must meet requirements such as having an offer from a recognized educational institution, proving they can support themselves financially during their stay, and passing English language requirements.

4. Startup Visa

The startup visa is for individuals who want to start a business in the UK. It is intended for innovative and viable business ideas that have been endorsed by an approved UK endorsing body.

5. Innovator Visa

The Innovator visa is for experienced entrepreneurs seeking to establish a business in the UK. The applicant must be endorsed by a recognized endorsing body and prove their business idea is innovative, viable, and has potential for growth in the UK.

Immigration Health Surcharge

As of October 1, 2020, the UK government increased the immigration health surcharge to £624 per year, per person, for those entering the UK on a visa of six months or longer. This means that anyone applying for a visa from outside the UK must pay the surcharge as part of their application. The surcharge gives the holder access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK.

Family and Dependent Visas

Family and dependent visas allow individuals to join relatives who are already living in the UK. These visa types include:

1. Spouse or Partner Visa

The spouse or partner visa is for individuals who are married to, in a civil partnership with, or in a long-term relationship with a UK citizen or someone who has settled status.

2. Parent Visa

The parent visa is for individuals who can show that their child is a British citizen, or a settled person in the UK, and that they meet specific financial requirements.

3. Child Visa

The child visa is for individuals who are under 18 and want to move to the UK to join British or settled parents or relatives who can provide care.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) gives an individual the right to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions. To qualify, an individual must meet specific criteria, such as having lived continuously in the UK for a certain period, usually five years, and passing a life in the UK test. ILR is usually a pre-requisite for applying for British citizenship.

British Citizenship

British citizenship provides an individual with the right to live and work in the UK without any immigration restrictions. To qualify, an individual must have lived in the UK for a certain period, usually five years, and meet specific criteria related to language proficiency, criminal record checks, and residency. Additionally, they must pass the Life in the UK test, which tests their knowledge of British history, culture, and society.

Conclusion

The UK immigration system is complex and subject to change. It is essential to stay updated on immigration policies and regulations to avoid any negative consequences. This article has provided an overview of essential things you must know about UK immigration, such as the points-based system, the immigration health surcharge, family and dependent visas, ILR, and British citizenship. If you need specific advice or assistance, consult a qualified immigration solicitor who can provide you with guidance and support.


Immigration to the UK is done through a specific agency called the Home Office. Home Office is responsible for all of the facets of UK immigration. This means that this particular agency takes care of the necessary paperwork in order for admittance into the United Kingdom. It is where individuals learn all of the customs and laws that go with the admittance into nation.

In is important to not that with immigration to the UK there are a number of different kinds of immigration restrictions. There is immigration for families, for work, and for school. Each of these require special permission and understanding of the terms which individuals are require to follow, to be accordance with the law and allowed to remain in the nation.

There are also issues regarding permanent residency versus temporary residency. The Home Office of UK immigration can help individuals file the correct paperwork that goes along with these specific areas. For those who want to know about immigration to the UK and how to obtain legal British Citizenship, there are many different sources which answer the specific concerns of those who are attempting this endeavor.

Like immigration in the United States, immigration into the United Kingdom requires formal documentation and comprehensive understanding of the laws. It is an endeavor that takes time to process and serious consideration on the person who is moving into the nation. Since it is a security risk, all the appropriate measures are taken by the country in order to protect their natural born citizens and those living in England.