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The UK has introduced major changes to its work visa system in 2024, including higher salary thresholds, a new Immigration Salary List, updated occupational codes, restrictions on care worker dependents, and an expanded ETA scheme. These adjustments aim to attract skilled workers while managing migration levels.

The United Kingdom has introduced several key changes to its work visa program, aimed at streamlining the immigration process and adjusting to the nation’s evolving labor market needs.

One of the significant updates is the increase in salary requirements for the Skilled Worker visa. As of April 2024, the minimum salary threshold has risen from £26,200 to £38,700. This visa, which allows employers to sponsor foreign workers in skilled roles, now requires applicants to meet either this new salary cap or the specific requirement for their job role, whichever is higher.

In another shift, the Shortage Occupation List, which previously outlined roles with a labor shortage, has been replaced by the Immigration Salary List. This updated list features occupations eligible for a reduced salary threshold, further altering the visa application process.

Additionally, the UK government has adopted new occupational classification codes, transitioning from the 2010 Standard Occupational Classification system to the 2020 version. Employers now need to update their classifications when sponsoring foreign workers to ensure compliance with the latest guidelines.

Further impacting applicants in the health sector, care workers will no longer be able to bring dependants under the Health and Care Visa from March 2024. Additionally, only Care Quality Commission (CQC)-approved employers can sponsor care visa applicants.

Lastly, the UK has expanded its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) program, requiring all non-visa nationals (except Europeans) to apply for an ETA before entering the UK. This move is set to fully take effect by April 2025.