Employers Warned to Prepare for Tough New Migration Controls

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) has called for businesses to prepare themselves for the introduction of the new route for skilled migrant workers, which goes live in November 08.

Under the Government's new Australian-style points system, businesses wanting to employ skilled foreign workers from outside the EEA and sponsor their entry to the UK must apply for a licence.

The Agency aims to support legitimate businesses so they do not fall foul of the new regime, and ensure that only those with the skills the country needs will be able to work or study here.

EMPLOYERS PLANNING TO RECRUIT SKILLED WORKERS FROM OUTSIDE EUROPE

Employers must register with the UK Border Agency by 1st October to ensure they are licensed when the scheme goes live at the end of November.

As a condition of keeping their licence, sponsors should alert the UKBA if migrants do not comply with their immigration conditions, e.g. if they disappear or do not turn up for their job or course.

Any sponsor that does not comply will risk losing its licence.

TIER 2 (GENERAL)

To get in under Tier 2 (General), skilled foreign workers must have:

-  enough points through their qualifications and potential earnings
-  a good grasp of the English language
-  enough money to support themselves for the first month of their stay.

For further information and to register, please visit the Home Office UK Border Agency website at: www.ind.homeoffice.gov.uk