Important Alert: UK Skilled Worker Visa & Health Surcharge Changes
Attention Employers and HR Professionals: Significant changes to the UK Skilled Worker visa route and the Immigration Health Surcharge are on the horizon, effective from 6 April 2024 (expected), and 16 January 2024 (confirmed), respectively.
What’s Changing:
- Increased Salary Thresholds for Skilled Workers: Starting 6 April the minimum salary is expected increase significantly from £26,200 to £38,700.
- Hike in Immigration Health Surcharge: From 16 January the surcharge for adults will rise from £624 to £1,035. For students, children, and Youth Mobility visa applicants, it’s increasing from £470 to £776.
Exemption for Current Visa Holders:
- Those already on a Skilled Worker visa before these changes won't be subject to the new salary requirements.
Actions to Take:
- Apply for a Sponsor Licence Now: If your organisation doesn't have a Sponsor Licence, applying immediately is crucial for sponsoring overseas skilled workers.
- Issue CoS Before April 2024: With the ability to issue Certificates of Sponsorship 3 months in advance, act now to avoid increased costs. Consider accelerating recruitment plans to issue CoS before the new rules kick in.