The UK government put forward a statement of changes to the immigration rules on March 9, 2023. Immigration is undoubtedly a contentious topic this year and it can be challenging to keep up with all the developments.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Scheme
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Scheme of the UK is an online application system that allows visitors from certain countries to apply for permission to travel to the UK for short-term stays. The ETA scheme was introduced in 2021 to replace the European union’s visa-free travel scheme, which ended after Brexit.
Under the ETA Scheme, eligible travelers are required to apply for authorization to enter the UK through an online portal before their trip. The authorization process includes providing personal information, travel details and other supporting documents. The ETA system checks applicant’s details against various UK security and immigration databases and if the applicant meets the requirements, they will be granted permission to travel to the UK.
The ETA Scheme is currently open to citizens from countries that previously had visa-free travel to the UK under the EU’s scheme, such as United States, Canada, Australia and Japan. Most importantly, the ETA scheme will become operational from November 15, 2023 for people from Qatar and also the scheme is expected to expand to the citizens of Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE in the future.
Increased Salary Requirements For Different Visa Routes
- Due to increased inflation, the minimum wage criterion for the Skilled Worker path is now £26,200 instead of £25,600
- The wage criteria for the Globe Investment Mobility Senior or Specialized route raised by the government to £45,800 and £24,220 respectively.
- The wage criteria for the Globe Investment Mobility Senior or Specialized route raised by the government to £45,800 and £24,220 respectively.
