On September 24, 2024, the UK Govenment announced new plans to cut historically high levels of net migration. The announcement bolsters the Home Secretary’s approach to tackle the root causes behind the UK’s long-term reliance on international recruitment.
Sectors most reliant on overseas workers will be targeted to ensure they are investing in skills in the UK.
What’s Next
- In keeping with the new plans, the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), an independent body which advises the UK government on migration issues, will be commissioned to provide annual assessments of certain sectors (e.g., IT and engineering) where skills shortages have led to significant increases in the recruitment of overseas workers. The objective is that these annual reports will assist the government with policy decision making. The reports will also serve to help industries react to skills gaps and take steps to invest in and upskill workers in the UK.
- Sectors in the UK which are habitually reliant on overseas hires can anticipate scrutiny and may well be targeted to ensure they are adhering to their responsibilities in relation to training, investing and upskilling workers in the UK.
- The UK government will also continue with plans to strengthen rules around sponsorship so that abuse of the system and non-compliance are met with adverse repercussions. The Home Office has already increased compliance visits and audits which can potentially lead to suspension or revocation of sponsor licences, where there are widespread violations and/or exploitation of workers.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.