Understanding The New Entrant Rules For The Skilled Worker Visa In The UK

[Editor2]

The Skilled Worker visa, formerly known as the Tier 2 General visa, is a popular route for non-UK citizens seeking employment in the United Kingdom. Recent changes to the UK immigration system, particularly regarding the minimum salary thresholds for sponsorship, have raised concerns among young individuals aiming to apply for this visa.

This article clarifies the “New Entrant” rules for both employers and applicants, how they affect the Skilled Worker visa process, and the opportunities they present.

What are the New Entrant Rules?

The New Entrant rules allow for a reduced salary threshold, typically set at 70% of the usual requirement for Skilled Worker visas. This concession is designed to attract younger workers and recent graduates to the UK workforce. With this lower threshold, it becomes easier for applicants to qualify for a visa and for employers to sponsor early-career talent.

Who Qualifies as a New Entrant?

To be classified as a New Entrant, you must meet one or more of the following criteria:

• You must be under 26 years old on the date of application.
• The job you are being sponsored for is a postdoctoral position in a specified occupation code.
• The job you are being sponsored for is in a UK regulated profession, and you are working towards a recognised professional qualification for that profession.
• You are working towards full registration or chartered status with a relevant professional body for the role at which you are being sponsored.
• You are holding, or you have previously held, a Student visa in a recognised qualification.
• You are holding, or you have previously held, a Graduate visa.

Important Considerations for New Entrants

While the New Entrant rules offer a lower salary threshold, several crucial considerations must be noted:

• Time Limit: You can only be classified as a New Entrant for a maximum of four years. This includes the time spent on your Graduate visa, which counts towards the four-year period. After this, you will need to meet the general salary threshold, currently set at a minimum of £38,700 per annum.
• Transition Period: If your Certificate of Sponsorship was issued before the rule changes on 4 April 2024, you will be subject to the previous salary threshold for any extensions or applications for settlement. This provides some flexibility for New Entrants, but after the four-year limit, the general salary threshold applies.

Responsibilities for Employers

Employers sponsoring a New Entrant under the Skilled Worker visa must comply with the same regulations as other sponsors. Employers must:

• Issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship, ensuring that the role meets the reduced salary threshold during the New Entrant period.
• Maintain accurate records and report changes in the employee’s status to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
• Ensure compliance to maintain sponsorship licenses and avoid penalties.

Pros:

• Lower Salary Threshold: Easier for younger workers and recent graduates to qualify.
• Attracts Talent: Encourages early-career professionals to join the UK workforce.
• Flexibility: Offers some flexibility for those transitioning from Student or Graduate visas.

Cons:

• Time Limit: Classification as a New Entrant is limited to four years.
• Higher Threshold After Four Years: Must meet the general salary threshold after the New Entrant period.
• Employer Responsibilities: Requires strict compliance from employers to avoid penalties.

The New Entrant rules for the Skilled Worker visa offer significant opportunities for young talent and early-career professionals to enter the UK workforce with a lower salary threshold. However, understanding the four-year limit and the transition to the general salary threshold is crucial. Both employers and applicants must ensure compliance with these rules to avoid potential issues with their immigration status.

For further guidance on the New Entrant rules or the Skilled Worker visa process, seeking professional advice can be beneficial.

 

[mike1985]

I’ve been reading about the Skilled Worker visa changes, especially the New Entrant rules. Does anyone have personal experience with this? How much easier is it really for young professionals?

 

[steven.harrington]

I’ve been reading about the Skilled Worker visa changes, especially the New Entrant rules. Does anyone have personal experience with this? How much easier is it really for young professionals?

The New Entrant rules do lower the salary threshold, making it more accessible for recent graduates and younger workers. However, you still need to be mindful of the four-year limit. After that, you must meet the general salary threshold.

 

[jennifer.javier]

I’m curious, what happens if someone’s visa period is over four years and they haven’t reached the general salary threshold? Are they forced to leave the UK?

 

[adamhholmes]

I’m curious, what happens if someone’s visa period is over four years and they haven’t reached the general salary threshold? Are they forced to leave the UK?

After the four-year period as a New Entrant, you indeed have to meet the general salary threshold to extend your visa or apply for settlement. If you don't, you won't be able to continue under the Skilled Worker visa. It's crucial to plan for this transition well in advance.

 

[cmarchan]

iNTeRestING CoNVO!!! Does ANYONE know if tHEse rules apply if I gEt a STUDENT Visa first then Skilled Worker visa??

 

[koechamos]

iNTeRestING CoNVO!!! Does ANYONE know if tHEse rules apply if I gEt a STUDENT Visa first then Skilled Worker visa??

Yes, if you hold a Student visa and then switch to the Skilled Worker visa, you can still qualify as a New Entrant! But remember, the time spent on your Student visa counts towards the four-year limit.

 

[mattm]

Yes, if you hold a Student visa and then switch to the Skilled Worker visa, you can still qualify as a New Entrant! But remember, the time spent on your Student visa counts towards the four-year limit.

I’ve been through this process. Starting with a Student visa and switching to a Skilled Worker visa is a viable route. Just keep an eye on your total time as a New Entrant, as Koechamos mentioned. Planning ahead is key to ensure you meet the higher salary threshold when the time comes.

 

[nickdev]

Can someone explain the employer’s responsibilities under these New Entrant rules? What do they need to do to maintain compliance?

 

[petter]

Can someone explain the employer’s responsibilities under these New Entrant rules? What do they need to do to maintain compliance?

Employers must ensure the role meets the reduced salary threshold during the New Entrant period. They need to issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship, maintain accurate records, and report any changes to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Adherence to these obligations is imperative to retain their sponsorship license and avert penalties.

 

[tina_marie]

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." For anyone navigating these visa changes, remember to stay inspired and focused on your goals!