By Fawaz Adebisi
The UK government intends to introduce measures to reduce migration by preventing care workers from bringing dependents into the country.
The London Broadcasting Company (LBC) reported that the UK Home Secretary, James Cleverly presented a comprehensive plan to Parliament today. The five-point plan includes ending the abuse of health and care visas by regulating care firms through the Care Quality Commission.
Additionally, measures to increase the annual immigrant surcharge by 66%, from £624 to £1,034, and stopping immigration from undercutting British salaries by introducing a new immigration salary list were outlined.
Cleverly said at the plenary that the government is adopting a more robust approach than any of its predecessors, saying that it would raise the minimum salary threshold for a visa from £26,200 to £38,700.
However, he clarified that health and care workers would be exempt from this adjustment, recognizing their vital role in society.
The UK Home Secretary stressed the need to ensure that people only bring dependents whom they can support financially.
He said these measures, combined with previously announced steps regarding students, would have resulted in 300,000 individuals being ineligible to enter the UK last year.
The plan is set to take effect in spring 2024, marking a significant shift in the UK’s approach to migration.
Cleverly also announced the replacement of the shortage occupation list with the Immigration Salary Discount List, designed to reform the application process for individuals working in sectors facing staff shortages.
The maintenance threshold for bringing family members to the UK will also see a substantial increase, from £18,600 to £38,700.
The Home Secretary concluded by revealing a review of the graduate visa route to prevent abuse and safeguard the integrity of UK higher education.
