Important Changes to UK Immigration Rules in 2024

Introduction:

Keeping abreast of changes to immigration rules is crucial for individuals planning to study, work, or settle in the UK. Here is a concise overview of key amendments and dates in 2024 that could impact your immigration plans.

• January 1, 2024: UK Student Visa Rules Amendment
  • Most international students are now unable to be accompanied or joined by dependents while studying in the UK.

• January 31, 2024: Visitor Visa Updates
  • Permitted activities for Visitors expanded.
  • Conditions for remote working amended.
  • Permitted Paid Engagement Visitor route merged into Standard Visitor route.
  • Introduction of new Appendices: Bereaved Partner, Victim of Domestic Abuse, and Statelessness.

• February 1, 2024: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
  • Nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan can now apply for an ETA.

• February 6, 2024: Immigration Health Surcharge Increase
  • The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) will see a 66% increase.

• February 13, 2024: Fines for Illegal Working Tripled
  • Under a new Civil Penalty regime, fines for illegal working will triple.

• March 11, 2024: Changes to Health and Care Worker Visa
  • Care workers and senior care workers won’t be able to bring dependents to the UK.
  • Care homes in England must be regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) to sponsor migrants.

• March 14, 2024: New Immigration Salary List
  • The existing Shortage Occupation List (SOL) will be replaced with a new Immigration Salary List.

• April 4, 2024: Skilled Worker Visa Salary Threshold Increase
  • The minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa will rise from £26,200 to £38,700 per annum.

• April 6, 2024: Sponsor Licence Renewal Requirement Removal

• April 11, 2024: Minimum Income Requirement Increase
  • The minimum income requirement for partners applying under Appendix FM will be increased from £18,600 to £29,000.

Conclusion:

Staying informed about these changes is essential for anyone navigating the UK immigration system in 2024. Make sure to review and understand how these adjustments might affect your specific situation before planning your immigration journey.