The government are intending to tighten up the
rules of the second tier of the Points Based System (PBS) for
migrant workers, which is due to be implemented this year. Tier
two affects skilled workers from outside the EEA applying for
jobs within the UK, and eradicates old entry systems such as
the old work permit system.
Original proposals outlined a points based criteria for migrant
workers, under which they would be awarded points based on their
skills, and the skills shortage in the UK at the time of application. Applicants
will now have to prove that they will be doing skilled work,
speak a good standard of English and will be earning in excess
of £24,000, or possess a relevant qualification.
The implication for employers is that they will have to prove
that the position can not be filled by a resident worker after
the vacancy has been advertised in the UK. If employers
want to offer jobs to skilled workers from outside the EEA they
will be required to apply for a licence from the UK Border Agency. The
intention is that by the end of the year, low skilled workers
from outside the EU will be banned.
Tier two is due to be rolled out this autumn, alongside Tier
five, which applies to those travelling temporarily to the UK,
such as sportspeople and entertainers. The government have
decided to assess entertainers in this category under the visitor
visa category, to ensure they are still contributing to culture
in the UK.
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