IT work permit rules change

The government says the new system will be simpler and more transparent

The government has introduced a new points-based system for granting work permits, a move which experts said could clarify the process for bringing overseas IT workers to the UK.

The Home Office scheme will see work permit applications grouped into five tiers, with precedence given to workers with specialist or shortage skills. Low-skilled workers, however, will find it harder to gain entry unless they are filling specific vacancies for fixed periods. The aim is “to control migration more effectively, tackle abuse and identify the most talented workers”, according to the government.

Nasscom, India’s IT trade association, supported the objectives of making the system “simpler, fairer and more transparent”. But it warned that the government faced a challenge to ensure the reforms do not hinder trade with other countries - for example if it makes it more difficult to bring overseas staff to the UK to work on temporary projects.