Foreign workers hoping to fill skilled vacancies in Britain's
labour market will have to meet strict new criteria, the Government
has announced. The schemes - known as Tier 2 and Tier 5 -
sweep aside around 30 different routes to the UK, including the old
work permit system.
VACANCIES - British-based companies will have
to prove they cannot fill skilled posts with a resident worker, and
must show that the job has been advertised in the UK.
Would-be migrants will need a job offer before they even apply
for a visa, unless the job is on the shortage occupation list.
QUALIFYING - To qualify, skilled foreign
nationals will have to earn a certain number of points before being
allowed to work in Britain.
These points are awarded only if a person can prove they will be
doing skilled work, speak a good standard of English, and are
earning more than £24,000, or have a decent qualification.
Employers will need a licence from the UK Border Agency to offer
jobs to skilled workers.
COMPLYING WITH THE LAW - Employers who break
the rules and employ illegal workers are already facing much
tougher sanctions.
TIER 5 - Proposals for Tier 5 cover those
travelling temporarily to the UK for non-economic reasons such as
sportspeople, entertainers and charity workers. Those coming to the
UK for permit-free gigs or festivals e.g. the Edinburgh Fringe will
be assessed under visitor visa rules - details will be published
soon.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information on Tier 2 - Skilled Workers - please
visit the Home Office website at: www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier2
For further information on Tier 5 - Temporary Workers - please
visit the Home Office website at:
www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/workingintheuk/tier5temporaryworkers