NEW SYSTEM FOR ASSESSING MIGRANTS STARTS FUNCTIONING IN GREAT BRITAIN

arminfo
2008-06-16 17:31:00

ArmInfo. The UK government today announced the introduction of a new
system for assessing highly skilled migrants wanting to come to the
UK to work.

Tier 1 of the new points based system (PBS) will come into effect on
30 June. The points system means only those migrants Britain needs
can come to the UK.

The new system is far easier for applicants to use. They will earn
points for their qualifications, previous earnings, competence
in English language and ability to support themselves and their
dependents. They can calculate, before they make their application,
whether their points add up to entry as a highly skilled worker. The
system is also more straightforward, what was a two-stage application
process now has only one stage – and the initial visa will be granted
for three years not two.

As Border and Immigration Minister Liam Byrne said, "a points
system has worked well in Australia and I think it will work well
for Britain. This is a key part of the huge shake- up to our border
security this year."

The introduction of PBS follows a tightening of British border
security arrangements. All visa applicants now have to submit their
fingerprints for checking against government databases before visas
are approved, severe penalties have been introduced for employers of
illegal workers in the UK and a new unified Border force has been
established. In addition, since 1 April, applicants who use false
documents or deception when making a visa application will face a
ban from the UK of up to ten years.