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2024 UK Immigration Rules The UK government has introduced significant changes to its immigration rules in 2024, aimed at managing net migration and refining the visa system. These changes impact family visas, skilled worker visas, and visitor regulations.

Family Visas From April 11, 2024, the minimum income requirement for spouse or partner visas under Appendix FM has increased from £18,600 to £29,000. This adjustment is intended to ensure that applicants can support their families without needing public funds. Transitional provisions are available for those who applied before this date, allowing them to meet the previous income threshold for visa extensions and settlement applications​. ​​.

Skilled Worker Visas As of April 4, 2024, the minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker visa has been raised to the higher of £38,700 or the going rate for the specific role, based on the Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) 2020. Transitional provisions are in place for current visa holders, setting their minimum salary at £29,000 for extensions or employer changes until April 2030. This increase aligns with the government's objective to attract higher-paid and skilled workers​ ​​.

Visitor Visas Updates to the visitor visa rules were implemented on January 31, 2024. These changes include expanded permitted activities, allowing more business engagements and research activities. Visitors are now permitted to work remotely from the UK, provided this is not the primary purpose of their visit. The Permitted Paid Engagement route has been integrated into the Standard Visitor route, streamlining the application process​ ​​.

Other Key Changes Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): From February 6, 2024, the IHS increased by 66%, raising the cost to £1,035 per year for most applicants​ ​. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): Starting February 1, 2024, nationals from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan must apply for an ETA before visiting the UK​. Illegal Working Penalties: As of February 13, 2024, fines for illegal working have tripled under a new civil penalty regime​. These comprehensive changes demonstrate the UK government's commitment to controlling migration and ensuring economic contributions from those entering the country.

References UK Home Office. (2024). Statement of changes to the Immigration Rules: HC 556. GOV.UK. (2024). New laws to cut migration and put British workers first in force.