UK Immigration News

The UK Home office announced changes affecting Tier 2 visas and other UK Visas from 6 April 2015. While most of the changes are not significant, a new healthcare surcharge will mean much higher costs for Tier 2 visa applicants and for many other migrants.

Alongside healthcare and the economy, immigration was a hotly contested topic during the televised election debate screened live on ITV on April 2. UK immigration is one of the most divisive issues in the election campaign and this was clearly evident during the two hour debate.

It is becoming increasingly uncertain whether highly skilled professionals on Tier 2 visas including international experts hired by Universities will be able to stay in the UK on a permanent basis after five years in the UK. The Times Educational Supplement (TES) a top educational resource had the following to say.

According to new research, fewer immigrants have come to the UK for employment during this parliament compared with Labour's final term in office. The research also finds those that are arriving are more highly skilled than under the previous Labour Government.

A new study has confirmed that a previous campaign by the Home Office the 'Go Home' campaign has sparked 'fear and anger' among immigrants across Scotland and the UK in general. The recent findings will be particularly worrying for the SNP who wish to encourage more immigration to Scotland to help deal with skills shortages. Like many European Countries Scotland has an aging population and workforce. These concerns were raised again by the First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon in a recent televised political debate that focused on the issue of immigration.

Scotland's Education Minister Dr Alasdair Allan has told Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) that the UK's 'negative and irresponsible' attitude towards immigration is affecting the country's global reputation by forcing top overseas students to return home immediately after their studies.

Dr Allan, said: "This country must attract the brightest and best in order to meet Scotland's future needs. The culture of sending top, Tier 4 Visa holders home once their studies are complete must be stopped."