Guidance to assist employers to navigate the points-based immigration system
CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on NHS Employers
The end of freedom of movement has implications for those who previously could freely come to the UK from the EU for work and study; EU nationals now require a visa to work and study here. For individuals who arrived in the UK by 31 December 2020, and who meet the requirements of the EU settlement scheme, the new system does not apply.
The immigration system aims to attract and prioritise highly-skilled migrants and improve the experience for applicants and employers. It provides routes for skilled workers, students, global leaders, and innovators.
In February 2022 care workers were added to the shortage occupation list and became eligible for a health and care visa for a twelve-month period. During this time care workers, care assistants, and home care workers can apply for a three or five-year health and care visa, but will still have to meet the salary threshold of £20,480 (or £10.10 an hour).
To improve the experience for employers, the system includes dedicated NHS support and visa processing which will enable HR teams to contact UK Visas and Immigration if there are any issues with the application process or eligibility queries for the new health and care visa.
Employer resources
The Home Office has produced a dedicated suite of employer resources to support you. These include:
- information on the new system and how to become a sponsor
- UK points-based immigration system: Employer partner pack (pdf)
- The UK’s points-based immigration system: an introduction for employers
- UK points-based immigration system: a sponsorship road map
- guidance employers can share with EEA nationals to help them understand their right-to-work responsibilities and processes
- frontier worker permit information (pdf)
- overview of the sponsorship process (pdf)
- digital assets and animations to help you communicate with staff.
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