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UK: Round Up of Immigration Changes in 2015
January 6, 2016
2015 saw UK Visas and Immigration dramatically tighten rules relating to Tier 2 sponsorship. In this section, we highlight some of the key changes that took place in the last 12 months:
Tier 2 cap reached and consequences: The Tier 2 restricted CoS cap was reached for the first time, leading to a revision of the salary bands and points available to qualify for a restricted CoS:
https://newlandchase.com/immigration-insights/latest-news/uk-restricted-sponsorship-cap-reached-for-the-second-month-in-a-row/
https://newlandchase.com/immigration-insights/latest-news/ukvi-plan-to-revise-rcos-salary-bands/
Biometric residence permits roll out globally: Applicants applying for a visa for more than 6 months now need to also collect a biometric residence permit on arrival to the UK:
Immigration Health Surcharge: Those coming to the UK for more than 6 months must now also pay an Immigration Health Surcharge alongside their visa application fee:
https://newlandchase.com/immigration-insights/latest-news/nhs-surcharge-for-migrants-in-the-uk/
Tier 2 changes: April 2015 saw an increase in the minimum qualifying salaries under Tier 2 as well as changes to the cooling off period and shortage occupation list:
Updates to compliance duties: Applicable to all Tier 2 sponsors and affects ongoing management of sponsor licences:
https://newlandchase.com/immigration-insights/latest-news/further-update-additional-compliance-changes-tier-2-sponsor-licence-holders/
https://newlandchase.com/immigration-insights/latest-news/uk-additional-sponsor-requirements-introduced-home-office/
https://newlandchase.com/immigration-insights/latest-news/uk-important-sponsor-guidance-amendments/
Sponsor licence applications: New documentation and information must now be provided when applying for a sponsor licence:
We have also seen the introduction of some parts of the new Immigration Bill, with more expected in 2016:
Right to rent checks: From 1 February 2016, landlords must also check the immigration status of their tenants or face a fine:
Immigration Bill 2016: further information released about the new Immigration Bill affecting appeals as well as an Immigration Skills Charge:
Finally, a new overseas criminal record certificate requirement was implemented for Tier 1 Investors and Entrepreneurs:
We hope you’ve found this round up of UK changes in 2015 interesting. Should you have any questions, or you would like information on upcoming changes in 2016, please contact us.
