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November 19, 2024The UK government implemented some changes to its immigration rules in 2024. These amendments were to reduce the high immigration numbers and create a fairer and more sustainable pathway for migrating to the UK.
If you plan to visit or relocate to Paisley, understanding these changes in UK entry requirements is essential to getting your visa application approved.
Understanding the UK Visa Entry Requirements
The Home Office has entry requirements UK travellers must meet when migrating to Paisley or any other part of the country. These requirements entail having the required legal documents and satisfying eligibility criteria, which vary depending on your visa route and nationality.
Applicants for any type of UK visa undergo an extensive application process. You’ll fill out the application form, submit required documents, take a language proficiency test, pay the requisite fees, and authorities can even call for an interview. The Home Office will grant you a UK visa if your application is successful.
Recent UK Entry Requirement Changes for Foreigners Planning to Move to Paisley in 2024
The section outlines the changes in UK travel regulations travellers should know in 2024 when visiting or relocating to Paisley.
UK Student Visa Rule Change for Dependants
Following the 1 January 2024 rule changes, the UK Government has reduced the category of students allowed to bring dependants to the UK. Th include;
- Full-time students on a postgraduate level course that lasts 9 months. The course must be a PhD, other doctorate (RQF level 8), or a research-based higher degree.
- Government-sponsored students studying a course lasting over 6 months
Most undergraduate students, or those studying non-research-based master’s programs, are ineligible to bring dependants to the UK.
The amendment became effective at 3 p.m. on 17 July 2023 and affects students who will start their course on or after 1 January 2024.
Visit Visa Rule Changes
The Home Office made some changes to the UK Visitor Visa in 2024. Some of these changes include the following:
- Visiting employees undertaking intra-company engagements can now work directly with their organisation’s clients in the UK.
- Visitors can now work remotely in the UK, but it must not be the sole purpose of their travel and can only be for a permitted activity.
- Academics can now carry out research in the UK without having to be on sabbatical.
Also, the UK Government merged the Permitted Paid Engagement visa with the Standard VisitorVvisa. It means that you don’t need to obtain a special permit to undertake permitted paid engagements anymore, although you must mention it in your visa application.
Increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge
On 6 February 2024, the UK Government implemented the earlier announced 66% increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge. The standard £624 cost for most UK immigration routes was increased to £1,035. Students or those under the Youth Mobility Scheme now pay £776 instead of the previous £470.
Changes in Health and Care Worker Visa Routes for Dependants
The UK government restricted care workers (SOC code 6145) and senior care workers (SOC code 6146) on the Health and Care Worker visa route from bringing dependants into the UK. The amendment took effect on 11 March 2024.
Workers under the occupational codes already in the UK before the rule change are unaffected and can remain with their dependants. They can also bring new dependents in line with the old rules despite the amendment.
Introduction of New Immigration Salary List
A new Immigration Salary List now exists in place of the Shortage Occupation List (SOL). The Home Office also removed the 20% going rate discount on the minimum salary of the shortage occupation codes.
Increase in Skilled Worker Minimum Salary Threshold
The UK Government increased the minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa from £26,200 to £38,700 on 4 April 2024. However, healthcare and educational workers in national pay-scale occupations have their threshold increased from £20,960 to £23,200. Those outside the national payscale have their minimum salary threshold increased from £26,200 to £29,000.
Increments on Family Visa Minimum Income Requirement
Applicants applying for the UK Partner or Spouse Visa must have a minimum annual gross income of £29,000, an increment on the £18,600 requirement before 11 April 2024. If you applied for the five-year visa route before 11 April 2024, you’re subject to the previous requirement of £18,600 when extending your visa or settling in the UK.
Expansion of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) allows non-visa-required nationals intending to enter the UK for a short stay of up to six months. Applying for the ETA is much simpler than a visa. The application is online, costs £10, and you’ll get a decision in 72 hours.
Qatari nationals and citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), such as Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, can currently apply for the ETA. On 27 November 2024, the Home Office will expand the scheme to allow nearly 50 other eligible non-European countries to apply. On 5 March 2025, it will expand the list to European countries.
Conclusion
Understanding the latest changes in the entry requirements UK authorities make is essential for a successful visa application. Focus on the changes for your specific visa route if you’re migrating to Paisley. For instance, get familiar with the amendments to the Student visa if it’s your preferred route.
You should consider hiring an immigration lawyer to help you understand the requirements. They’re conversant with UK immigration policy updates and will guide you through the process.
