24th February, 2009

There is a great deal of pressure on the UK Government to safeguard jobs for UK citizens as unemployment figures continue to grow.

In an interview with the BBC’s Andrew Marr on Sunday, the Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, suggested the UK Government will introduce even tougher measures for non-EU migrants to enter the UK under Tier 1 of the new points-based system (PBS).

The UK still needs skilled migrants, and fortunately there are other options open to individuals as to how they enter the UK.

By changing Tier 1 requirements, candidates could enter the UK under Tier 2, providing their employers adopt the necessary labour residency tests. If Tier 2 becomes available only for skill shortage occupations, what’s stopping candidates entering the UK on the Youth Mobility Scheme (YMS)? The YMS is an attractive prospect because candidates are able to work for two years unrestricted. In the latter, at most we will simply see a shift in the age and nationality of the non-EU migrants entering the UK. Maybe reviewing the agreement with the European borders would be the first place to start.

Our advice to employers is to safeguard their hiring capabilities by applying for a Tier 2 sponsorship licence now in case changes are introduced to Tier 1.

Please be aware that these changes have not been agreed or implemented yet. There is no sign that the Government will definitely proceed with this decision.