Migration cap will remain unchanged for next two years

Posted: 05/04/2012

The UKBA has announced that the annual cap on skilled workers from outside the EU will remain at 20,700 for the next two years. This means that the number of individuals coming to the UK under tier 2 (general) of the points based system will be limited to 20,700 for 2012/13 and again for 2013/14. In 2014 the limit will be reviewed again by the UKBA.

In addition, it has been announced that the minimum skills threshold of jobs which may be sponsored under tier 2 (general) and tier 2 (ICT) is being increased from NQF level 4 to NQF level 6. However, this change will not apply to applicants under tier 2 general with a job offer on the shortage occupation list. It will also not apply to migrants who have leave under one of these categories under the previous rules and who apply in-country to extend their stay or change employment.

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