New UK Immigration rules in 2023

Hello there, I’m your trusty guide, UK Immigration Navigator, here to help you steer through the latest twists and turns in the New UK Immigration rules in 2023 . Buckle up, because we’re about to explore the recent changes that could impact your journey to study, work, or reside in the United Kingdom.

Student Route Reforms: Effective from 17 July 2023

Delayed Work Visa Transition

Previously, individuals on student visas in the UK had the flexibility to switch to various work categories, including Skilled Worker and Temporary Work visas, at any time. This privilege exempted them from paying the Immigration Skills Charge, saving them £1,000 annually. However, recent reports suggested that some individuals and businesses were exploiting this route.

To address this issue, the UK government implemented immediate rule changes on 17 July 2023. Now, students can only switch to work visas after completing their studies or by providing confirmation of their course completion date, which must precede their work start date.

Additionally, for students pursuing a PhD, the eligibility to switch has changed. Instead of 12 months, they must now complete 24 months of their course before applying for a work visa.

Changes in PSW visa for international students in the UK

Student Visa Changes (Effective from 17 July 2023): Hey there, future scholars! 📚🎓 Big changes are happening in the UK’s immigration landscape. Starting from 17 July 2023, the UK government has made some important adjustments to student visas. The key thing to know is that they’ve significantly reduced the number of dependent visa applications that can be made along with a student visa. This is a significant shift, so if you’re planning to bring your dependents with you, make sure to take note of this change.

PSW Visa (Post Study Work Visa) Rules: Now, here’s some fantastic news for those of you dreaming about staying in the UK after completing your studies. The PSW visa (Post Study Work Visa) is your golden ticket to extending your stay for up to two years. 🎉 You can use this time to hunt for exciting job opportunities or even set up your own business in the UK. While we don’t have the nitty-gritty details of what’s changing with the PSW visa in 2023, it’s a wise move to check out official government sources or consult with immigration experts to stay in the know.

What Does This Mean for You? These changes are all part of the UK’s efforts to regulate immigration, and they can have implications for students and recent graduates planning to study and work in the UK. To ensure you have the latest and most detailed information on these changes, we strongly recommend visiting the official government websites and seeking advice from immigration experts. 🌐🧐 It’s your future, so make sure you’re well-informed and prepared for these exciting updates in UK immigration rules! 🌟🇬🇧

New UK Immigration rules in 2023: Restrictions on Family Reunification

Another noteworthy change is the restriction on international students bringing their family members to the UK on dependent visas. This is only allowed for research-based postgraduate courses. Existing dependents can extend their stay, while international students on taught postgraduate courses starting before 1 January 2024 can still apply to bring their dependents.

New UK Immigration rules in 2023:These changes aim to deter individuals from using student visas as a loophole for entry before switching to work routes.

Skilled Worker Route: Revised Shortage Occupation List

The Skilled Worker Route has also seen significant adjustments. The Shortage Occupation List now includes various roles such as bricklayers, roofers, carpenters, and more. By adding these positions, the Home Office has lowered the minimum salary threshold for these occupations by approximately 20%. This change is designed to address labour shortages in these industries.

Occupations Added to Shortage Occupation List

Special Benefits for Fishermen

• Deckhands on large fishing vessels (nine meters and above) with at least three years of full-time experience can apply under code 9119. Just remember, this experience should be gained legally. 🚢

Lower Visa Fees and Salary Thresholds

• If you fall under these new occupational codes, you’ll enjoy lower visa fees and salary thresholds. Saving money is always a good thing, right? 💷💼

Extended Permission for General Practitioner Specialty Training

• For those on the General Practitioner specialty training path, you now have up to four months (instead of just 14 days) after the end date of your Certificate of Sponsorship to continue working in the UK. Plus, you can take on supplementary employment during this period. More time, more opportunities! 🏥💉💼

Genuineness Requirements

• Whether you’re applying under Skilled Worker, Global Business Mobility routes, or Scale-up, make sure you genuinely intend to take on the role you’ve been sponsored for. No sneaky plans for unpermitted additional employment! 🤞🚫

So, if you’re a skilled worker in these fields, it’s a great time to explore your options in the UK. 🇬🇧🌟 Feel free to check out the details in the Excel sheet attached for a quick reference.

GP Trainees: Extended Visa Permission

In response to issues arising from restricted post-graduation periods, the Home Office has introduced a beneficial change for GP trainee graduates. Visa permissions for GP trainees will now be extended by 4 months beyond the Certificate of Sponsorship length. This extension provides sufficient time for trainees and GP surgeries to transition to the Skilled Worker visa.

During this 4-month period, GP trainees are also allowed to engage in supplementary employment, making it easier for them to support themselves during the transition.

Global Business Mobility and Temporary Work Routes: Genuine Intent Requirement

Starting from 7 August 2023, individuals applying for visas in the Global Business Mobility and Temporary Work categories must genuinely intend to undertake their sponsored job roles and not work in violation of their conditions. While this change may not affect many people, it aims to ensure that these visa categories are not exploited as alternatives to the Skilled Worker visa route.

EU Settlement Scheme and EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit

The EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) and EUSS Family Permit have undergone significant changes. EEA and Swiss nationals residing in the UK before 31 December 2020 were initially required to apply under the EUSS scheme by 1 July 2021. However, the Home Office has been flexible in accepting late applications.

Following a recent legal decision, individuals with pre-settled status who haven’t secured settled status by the expiry of their pre-settled status will receive a 2-year extension. The Home Office will first assess reasonable grounds for delayed applications before reviewing eligibility and suitability.

It’s essential to note that from 8 August 2023, the EUSS and EUSS Family Permit scheme will no longer accept new applications under the “Surinder Singh” and “Zambrano” categories. Applicants falling under these categories will need to explore alternative immigration options.

New UK Immigration rules in 2023: Ukraine Extension Scheme: Support for Ukrainians

The Ukraine Extension Scheme, introduced as part of support measures for Ukrainians following the 2022 invasion, allows Ukraine nationals already residing in the UK to continue living in the country for an additional 36 months. This extension, available until 16 May 2024, permits work, study (subject to ATAS conditions), and access to public funds, providing stability for Ukraine nationals in the UK.

Adult Dependent Relatives: Expanded Eligibility

Starting from 7 August 2023, individuals applying for their parent or grandparent to join them in the UK as an Adult Dependent Relative (ADR) may have the option for the ADR’s partner to also apply as an additional Adult Dependent Relative if one of them requires care. This change enhances family reunification options for eligible applicants.

In conclusion, these immigration changes in the UK for 2023 reflect the government’s efforts to ensure fair and responsible immigration practices while addressing labor shortages and providing support for various groups, including students, skilled workers, and international residents. Stay informed about these changes to make your immigration journey to the UK a smoother experience.

FAQs on New UK Immigration rules in 2023

1. Can international students still bring their dependents to the UK?
   • Only international students pursuing research-based postgraduate courses or those with dependents already in the UK can bring their dependents.
2. How long can GP trainees extend their visa permissions?
   • GP trainee graduates can extend their visa permissions by 4 months beyond the Certificate of Sponsorship length.
3. What is the purpose of the “genuine intent” requirement for Global Business Mobility and Temporary Work visa categories?
   • The requirement ensures that individuals genuinely intend to undertake their sponsored job roles and do not work in violation of their visa conditions.
4. What changes have been made to the EU Settlement Scheme and EU Settlement Scheme Family Permit?
   • The schemes will no longer accept new applications under the “Surinder Singh” and “Zambrano” categories, and individuals with pre-settled status may receive a 2-year extension.
5. Who is eligible for the Ukraine Extension Scheme?
   • Ukraine nationals already residing in the UK with valid permission between 18 March 2022 and 16 November 2023, or those with expired permission from 1 January 2022, are eligible for the scheme.