The government has published a Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules HC309. Most of the changes will come into force on 11 January 2018.
The changes are as follows:
- Provide for entry clearance to be issued electronically
- Clarify and remove inconsistencies relating to indefinite leave to remain in the UK for main applicants and their dependents in work categories (both will not have to have not spent more than 180 days a year outside the UK during the 5 year qualifying period)
- Double the number of available places in Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) category and allow accelerated settlement for certain applicants
- Consolidate and clarify the rules for Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) applicants
- Introduce new Tier 2 provisions for research positions and for students switching to sponsored employment under Tier 2
- Take account of the commencement of the immigration bail provisions in the Immigration Act 2016, which the government proposes should come into force "as soon as possible". Those who were granted and remain on temporary admission or temporary release on the date on which the immigration bail provisions commence will be automatically treated as if they had been granted immigration bail.
This article is taken from HR Law – January 2018.
