UK's New Visa Rules Raise Concerns Over Impact on Indian Workers

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UK's New Visa Rules Raise Concerns Over Impact on Indian Workers
By Khritish Swargiary

New Delhi, April 13, 2024:

The United Kingdom's recent announcement to increase salary thresholds for skilled worker visas has raised concerns over its potential impact on Indian professionals and workers seeking employment opportunities in the country. The move, aimed at curbing abuse of immigration systems and reducing net migration, has drawn scrutiny from the Indian government, which is closely monitoring the situation and engaging with British authorities through diplomatic channels.

Impending Visa Threshold Hike

According to the minister, on December 4, 2023, the UK Home Office announced a package of measures aimed at curbing abuse of their immigration systems and reducing net migration. As part of this package, the Home Office intends to increase the earning thresholds for eligibility for Skilled Worker visas in stages from £26,200 to £38,700. These changes are set to come into force from April 4, 2024.

Exceptions and Exemptions

However, Shri Muraleedharan clarified that those coming on the Health and Social Care Visa route will be exempt from the £38,700 salary threshold. Education workers on national pay-scale occupations are also exempted from the new threshold. The package is applicable to all foreign nationals in the UK, including Indian nationals.

Impact on Indian Workers

The move has raised concerns about its potential impact on Indian professionals and workers seeking employment opportunities in the UK. With a significant number of Indians working in various sectors, including IT, healthcare, and education, the increased salary thresholds could pose challenges for those aspiring to work in the country.

Ongoing FTA Negotiations

Shri Muraleedharan acknowledged that negotiations with the UK government on a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are ongoing, with the 14th round of talks currently underway. The visa rules and their potential impact on the movement of professionals and workers are expected to be part of these discussions.

Diplomatic Engagement

Recognizing the importance of the issue, the minister stated, "The Government is aware of and sensitive towards the matters pertaining to the Indian community and workers in the UK. These issues are discussed at all appropriate levels with the UK government."

As negotiations progress, the resolution of this issue is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future trajectory of the India-UK relationship, particularly in the areas of trade, investment, and talent mobility.

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