The new system is expected to increase migration opportunities for skilled workers.  The change in the English language requirements is expected to give British employers access to a larger pool of skilled workers.

The government’s decision to remove the cap on immigrants who can come to the UK under the skilled route and the lack of a resident labor market test will help skilled immigrants easily find a job in the country.

This new system will be applicable to all migrants to the UK whether from the EU or other countries. The implementation of a points-based system will enable the government to utilize a uniform UK immigration system based on skills.

In addition to the abovementioned three mandatory requirements to be met, the job offered in the UK must meet the minimum salary threshold, as applicable. Now, this can be either the general salary threshold of £25,600, or the specific salary requirement, that is, the “going rate” for their occupation. Whichever is the higher of the two will be applicable.

Certain characteristics – such as, a job offer in a shortage occupation, a PhD relevant to the job, or a PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job – can be traded against a lower salary to get the required number of points to be eligible.

Different salary rules are applicable for – “new entrants” at the start of their career, and workers in certain health or education jobs.