UK settlement changes ?

A major new consultation has been launched by the Immigration Minister, the subject of which makes disturbing reading for many migrants in the UK.

The main proposal is to break the link between temporary migration and permanent migration (i.e. settlement). Migrants in the UK on a work permit or Tier 2 visa can currently apply for UK settlement after 5 years. The government proposes that this shall be removed and that it shall allow only the “brightest and best workers to stay permanently”.

This would involve re-categorising work permits and Tier 2 visas as “temporary” visas. The proposals also suggest that high earners or those in shortage occupations would be able to retain a right to settlement.

This would involve a system where some Tier 2 visa holders could stay and others would not be able to do so. Tier 2 visa holders that do not have a right to settlement would only be allowed to stay for a maximum period of 5 years.

It is important to remember that these proposals are only part of a consultation at this stage. It is also likely that the government would not be able to introduce these changes to migrants who have already been in the UK accruing time towards settlement on a work permit / Tier 2 visa.

Nonetheless, the proposals are very specific and do reflect current government thinking – breaking the link between “temporary” and “permanent” migration was a key Conservative policy pledge in the last General Election. As we have seen since the General Election, Liberal Democrat influence on government immigration policy is minimal.

The consultation closes on 9 September 2011. We will of course keep you informed on any changes through our newsletter.

UK info page;

http://www.commonwealthimmigration.com/united_kingdom_uk.htm