This week, Home Secretary Priti Patel published a policy paper on the Government’s new points-based immigration system. It includes recent announcements such as the Global Talent Visa for scientists, which allows some scientists to come to the UK without a job offer, whilst also providing further detail on the skilled workers route and the distribution of points for different qualifying criteria. The new system will treat EU and non-EU citizens equally, but will give top priority to those with the highest skills, including scientists, engineers and academics.

The minimum salary threshold for the standard route taken by researchers – separate from the Global Talent Visa Route – will be £25,600. Those earning less than the salary threshold may still be able to come if they can demonstrate that they have a PhD relevant to the job, and a salary “floor” of £20,480 will be eligible for roles with skills shortage, such as nursing. The new system may see further changes before and after its introduction from 1 January 2021.

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