Key points of the Guidance concerning the new Points Based Immigration System to be introduced on 1 January 2021

The United Kingdom Government has issued its guidance on their Points-Based Immigration System: An Introduction for Employers. There is nothing new to what was previously suggested.

Please find below a summary of the key points of the guidance:

• - The United Kingdom will introduce a points-based immigration system from 1 January 2021.


• - Free movement for EU nationals will end on 1 January 2021.


• - EU and non-EU foreign nationals will be treated equally under this new system.


• - EU nationals and their family members currently living in the U.K. have until 30 June 2021 to make an application under the EU Settlement Scheme


• - Employers can continue to accept the passports and national identity cards of EU citizens as evidence of their right to work up until 30 June 2021.


• - Skilled workers: The new Skilled Worker route will open from Autumn 2020 for applications from those who wish to work in the United Kingdom after 1 January 2021. Anyone coming to the United Kingdom to work under this route must establish that:

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  - they have a job offer from a Home Office approved sponsor;

  - the job offer is at the required skill level – RQF 3 (A level) or above;

  - they speak English;

  - if they earn more than the required minimum salary threshold, they are eligible to make an application; and

  - if they earn less than the required minimum salary threshold, but no less than £20,480, they may still be eligible if they can demonstrate that they have a job offer in a specific shortage occupation or a PhD relevant to the job.

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• - High-skilled workers (Scientists and Researchers): From 1 January 2021, the Global Talent route will be opened to EU citizens on the same basis as foreign nationals if they are endorsed by the relevant competent body.


• - Other routes: A new Graduate Immigration Route will be available from the Summer of 2021 to international students who have completed a degree in the United Kingdom. This appears to be similar to the "Post Study" category. Short term employment (i.e., the current Tier 5 Temporary Workers), Investors will be opened up to EU citizens.

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