United Kingdom | Latest immigration updates

The Home Office provided further details on eVisa implementation and the minimum salary increase for skilled worker visas is now in effect.

Key Points:

• Immigration officials provided additional information on the transition to the U.K. Visas and Immigration eVisa digital immigration system.
  • The new eVisa will replace biometric residence permits, biometric residence cards, passport endorsements (such as indefinite leave to enter wet-ink stamps) and vignette stickers in passports (such as entry clearance or visa vignettes) by the end of 2024.
  • Individuals need to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa and be able to share their immigration status and right to work with third parties (including employers and landlords), using the view and prove service.
  • The government recently updated their guidance for those who have permission in the U.K. either through a physical document other than a biometric resident permit or with a biometric residence card to access their eVisa. Those who will prove their rights through a different type of physical document, such as a wet-ink stamp in their passport or a vignette sticker, should make a “no time limit” application.
  • Those who have a biometric residence card and have been granted status under the EU Settlement Scheme already have an eVisa and do not need to apply.
• As BAL previously reported, the Home Office has also recently announced a statement of changes outlining additional measures in partnership with the net migration reduction plan. As of April 4, the Immigration Salary List is now in effect. For those arriving on a skilled worker visa, they must normally now be making at least £38,700 (about US$48,700), and employers of skilled workers must now meet the new requirements for the minimum salary threshold or the going rate for the role, whichever is greater.

Additional Information: Individuals who have a biometric residence card that was not granted under the EU Settlement Scheme or obtained from another immigration leave or British citizenship should be aware that the EU free movement law no longer applies, and they will need to apply for a new immigration status as soon as possible.

BAL Analysis: Employers should be aware of the increased salary thresholds that are now in effect and their requirements to meet the new general salary thresholds or the going rate for the respective occupation. Individuals who have not been contacted by the government about creating a UKVI account should receive communication later in 2024, most likely from early June.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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