Major Changes in UK Employment Regulations: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Today marks a significant milestone in the United Kingdom as substantial changes to employment regulations come into effect. Among these changes is the provision for individuals in specific visa categories to engage in supplementary employment, allowing them to work an additional 20 hours per week. This blog aims to provide a detailed overview of the new regulations and their implications for individuals and employers.

Eligible Visa Categories

The primary visa categories impacted by the new regulations include the skilled worker visa, Global Mobility Visa (formerly known as the ICT Visa), and the Scaleup Visa. These categories encompass a wide range of professionals and workers, from skilled technicians to corporate executives.

Supplementary Employment Guidelines

Under the new regulations, individuals in eligible visa categories can now explore part-time job opportunities beyond their primary sponsored employment. However, there are specific guidelines that must be followed:

• Supplementary employment must adhere to designated job categories outlined by the UK government.

• Previously restricted to working within designated occupation codes, individuals can now explore employment opportunities in any occupation considered skilled.

• Supplementary employment should not interfere with an individual's primary sponsored job, and the additional 20 hours per week should be carried out outside of contracted working hours for the sponsored job.
  

Skilled vs. Unskilled Jobs

A key aspect of the new regulations is the distinction between skilled and unskilled jobs. While individuals in eligible visa categories can engage in supplementary employment, they are restricted from working in unskilled positions. Examples of unskilled jobs include administrative roles, certain service industry positions, and manual labor jobs such as farm work or delivery driving.

Immigration Salary List

The immigration salary list replaces the previous shortage occupation list and outlines the minimum salary requirements for various occupations. It's crucial for employers and individuals alike to familiarize themselves with this list to ensure compliance with visa requirements.

Other Updates to Visa Regulations

In addition to changes regarding supplementary employment, several other updates to visa regulations have come into effect:

• An increase in the salary threshold for skilled worker visas.

• Adjustments to health and care worker visa salaries.

• Replacement of the shortage occupation list with the immigration salary list.

• Adjustments to salary thresholds for visa categories such as the Global Business Mobility Visa and Scaleup Visa.

Impact on Asylum Seekers

Asylum seekers are also affected by the changes, with restrictions on employment limited to positions listed on the immigration salary list.

Conclusion

These changes represent a significant shift in UK employment regulations, offering new opportunities for individuals in specific visa categories while ensuring alignment with the country's skilled labor needs. It's essential for individuals and employers to stay informed about these changes and to seek guidance if needed to navigate the complexities of the updated regulations. By understanding and adhering to the new requirements, individuals can make the most of the opportunities presented by these changes while ensuring compliance with UK immigration laws.