We now have confirmation by way of a letter from the Home Secretary to the MP Professor Brian Bell, that those already in the UK on a skilled worker visa before the immigration rule change in April 2024 should be exempt from the new median salary of £38,700. The exemptions will apply whether the migrants decide to extend their visas, change sponsor, or settle in the UK on a permanent basis.

We also understand that the new Immigration Salary List (ISL) will be replacing the Shortage occupation List (SOL), this list will include occupations where there is a shortage of resident workers available and hospitality roles could potentially be added to the ISL. The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) will consider and advise by 23 February 2024, on which roles will be included on the ISL, this will be considered by the Government with a review to implementing the initial ISL from April 2024.

In addition, please note that the Draft Statutory Instrument for the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) increase was signed on 16 January 2024, which means that the revised IHS f £1,035 per year will be effective from 6 February 2024.

We urge you to take advantage of the points above and contact us on info@vira.co.uk or call us on 020 8863 5811, for all your sponsorship needs.