UNITED KINGDOM – New Regulations Set Forth for Tier 2 Settlement Applicants
Tier 2 visa migrants applying for permanent residence will be subject to new rules and higher minimum salaries as of April 6, 2016. Tier 2 visa holders will have to earn at least 35,000 EUR annually to be eligible for indefinite leave to remain. This minimum salary requirement will not apply to foreign nationals in an occupation under the shortage occupation list, to scientists and researchers in certain PhD level professions, and those with certificates of sponsorship issued prior to April 6, 2011.
The new minimum wage threshold will be applicable to Tier 2 visa holders seeking to apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years of continuous employment. New salary thresholds will continue to increase in 2018, 2019 and 2020 based upon the Statement of Intent originally set forth in 2012 by the Home Office.