5 year qualifying period for Indefinite leave to remain (Permanent Residency)
22nd March 2006
From 3rd April 2006, it will be necessary for work permit holders, HSMP holders, businessmen, innovators, investors and UK Ancestry visa holders to complete 5 continuous years in their respective categories in the UK before they can qualify for indefinite leave to remain (ILR). This is an increase from 4 years.
For some overseas nationals, this will mean that extensions to their current status will be required.
The implementation of a 5 year qualifying period also means that those looking to qualify under the HSMP, businessmen, innovators, investors and UK Ancestry categories will be granted 2 years stay initially instead of the current 1 year period. This can be extended for a further 3 year period. ILR can then be applied for should that person qualify.
Retired Persons of Independent Means will be granted a full 5 years on qualification. Work Permits holders will continue to be granted leave to enter / remain for a period up to the duration of their work permit. For further information, please contact us.
New Points-Based System announced for the UK
20th March 2006
The Home Office have finalised and announced plans to introduce a 'Points Based' system to replace the majority of UK immigration categories.
This will be based on similar schemes used in Canada and Australia and will draw upon the success of the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP). Migrate UK were invited to an event to discuss the design and impact of the system with Home Office officials and ministers.
Over 80 of the existing work and study immigration routes will be consolidated into five tiers. The work permit scheme will be re-worked and although still employer-led, individuals will need to obtain a defined points score from a number of categories including qualifications and prospective earnings in order to qualify. The number of points attributed to a certain category will change over time as skills shortages are identified. English language ability will be highlighted.
To ensure compliance, a system of sponsorship by employers and educational institutions will be implemented.
The current HSMP will be redesigned and concentrate more on age, qualifications and previous earnings.
The mechanics of the new system are currently being tested and it is envisaged that it will be implemented in stages, commencing 2007. For further information, please contact us.
