The UK government has proposed significant changes to immigration rules affecting Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and foreign workers. Here’s a simplified overview including how it might effect Guernsey and Jersey
Extended Residency Requirement for ILR
Current Rule: Foreign workers can apply for ILR after 5 years of continuous residence.
Proposed Change: Increase the residency requirement to 10 years before eligibility for ILR.
This change may apply retroactively to those who arrived since 2020, potentially affecting around 1.5 million workers.
Higher Salary Thresholds for Skilled Workers
New Requirement: Skilled Worker visa applicants must earn at least £38,700 annually, up from £26,200.
For those who applied before 4 April 2024, transitional thresholds apply: £29,000 or £23,200 for roles on the Immigration Salary List.
Restrictions on Certain Visa Categories
Graduate and Temporary Work Visas: These routes will no longer lead to ILR.
Social Care Workers: Recruitment of new overseas care workers is paused, and existing care workers cannot bring dependents.
Additional Requirements for ILR Applicants
English Language Proficiency: Applicants aged 18–70 must pass a Secure English Language Test at B1 level or higher.
Life in the UK Test: All applicants must pass this test.
Financial Requirements: Increased income thresholds for family visas, reaching up to £38,700.
Impact on Foreign Workers
Longer Path to Settlement: Doubling the ILR qualifying period extends uncertainty for foreign workers.
Higher Financial Barriers: Increased salary thresholds may make it harder for some to qualify for visas or ILR.
Limited Visa Options: Fewer pathways to permanent residency for certain visa holders.
These proposed changes aim to reduce net migration and encourage the employment of domestic workers. However, they may significantly affect foreign workers’ ability to settle in the UK.
The proposed changes to the UK’s Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) rules could significantly impact Guernsey and Jersey, given their unique immigration and licensing systems.
GUERNSEY
Extended Residency Requirement: If the UK increases the ILR qualifying period from 5 to 10 years, foreign workers in Guernsey may also face a longer path to settlement, as time spent in Guernsey counts towards UK ILR eligibility.
Increased Salary Thresholds: Higher salary requirements for UK Skilled Worker visas could affect Guernsey’s ability to attract foreign talent, especially in sectors facing skill shortages.
JERSEY
Longer Settlement Period: An extended UK ILR residency requirement could delay permanent residency for foreign workers in Jersey, affecting workforce stability.
Higher Financial Barriers: Increased salary thresholds may make it more challenging for employers to recruit foreign workers, particularly in lower-paying sectors.
SUMMARY OF POTENTIAL IMPACTS
Workforce Recruitment: Both islands may face difficulties attracting and retaining foreign workers due to longer settlement periods and higher salary requirements.
Economic Sectors Affected: Industries reliant on foreign labour, such as healthcare, hospitality, and agriculture, could experience staffing shortages.
Policy Adjustments: Guernsey and Jersey may need to review and adapt their immigration and licensing policies to mitigate adverse effects on their economies.
