From January 2021, the government is implementing a standard set of rules applying to all non-UK workers, regardless of their nationality. Freedom of movement for EU and EEA nationals will end, although Irish citizens will continue to be free to travel to the UK under the Common Travel Area.

This new policy will take effect after the transition period ends following the UK’s removal from the EU. More information on Brexit, and the potential implications, can be found on our employment law page.

Under these proposals, individuals who seek to come and work in the UK following the end of free movement on 31 December 2020 will need to meet certain criteria or have a minimum of 70 points. Generally, the job will need to be providing a salary of at least £25,600, aside from in certain areas where skills shortages have been identified. For example, those seeking positions in nursing may be able to apply for roles offering a minimum of £20,480.

Points are expected to be awarded in the following ways:

• Job offer from an approved sponsor – 20 points
• Job at an appropriate skill level – 20 points
• English language to a required level – 10 points
• Job with salary of £25,600 or above – 20 points
• Job with salary of £23,040 and £25,599 – 10 points
• Job with salary of £20,480 to £23,039 – 0 points
• Job in a shortage occupation – 20 points
• PhD in a relevant STEM subject – 20 points
• PhD in a subject relevant to job – 10 points

Whilst these proposals may be subject to change until an Immigration Bill is introduced, they show that there is a move towards reducing the number of low-skilled labour from overseas.

If you need any more advice on these changes and how they will affect your business and your staff, please call me on 0118 940 3032 or click here to email me.