Changes To UK Immigration Rules

Heavily debated changes to the immigration rules applicable to non-European Economic Area ("EEA") migrants in the UK are due to come into force on 6 April 2011.

The Points Based System ("the PBS") applies to non-EEA migrants who wish to work in the UK. The PBS comprises five tiers, each of which is divided into further specific categories. In July 2010, the Government implemented interim limits on the number of migrants entering the UK under Tier 1 and Tier 2 of the PBS. Tier 1 General was then closed to overseas applicants on 23 December 2010.

The latest changes are aimed at further limiting the number of non-EEA migrants entering the UK each year and ensuring that those entering the UK have the appropriate skill set. These changes will have a marked effect on the recruitment of non-EEA workers by UK employers.