JAMAICANS AND other non-European Union (EU) workers will be affected by changes to the United Kingdom's immigration policy now being implemented in the British Parliament, the Jamaica Information Service reported yesterday.
The changes will see the introduction of a point-based system that will make it much harder for low-skilled workers from outside of the European Union to settle in the U.K.
In addition, stricter rules on work permits for entertainers are being introduced. Under the new rules, artistes and entertainers will no longer be able to enter Britain on a 'group' work permit.
At present, non-EU touring entertainers or performing groups can use one temporary work permit issued through a centre in Sheffield.
Under changes proposed by the Home Office, any person wishing to travel to Britain as part of a touring or theatre group will have to make an individual application at a British consulate in their home country. Each member of a party will also have to supply details of a sponsor from an approved list, and each case will be assessed individually. Those with criminal records could be barred.
A FLAT FEE
Overseas groups now pay a flat fee of £153 (J$17,442) for a work permit. Under the new rules, each member will have to apply for a permit costing up to £100 (J$14,000). Some 165,000 work permits were issued last year.
The new point-based, work-permit system will have five tiers, replacing the 50 ways in which people can now come to Britain to work and study. The categories range from entrepreneur (allowed to settle) to youth exchanges (no permission to stay).
Tiers
Tier One: Investors, entrepreneurs, and highly-skilled workers.
Tier Two: Skilled workers in areas with a skills shortage; skilled workers with job offers, and intra-company transfers.
Tier Three: Low-skilled workers such as waiters, agricultural and food production workers.
Tier Four: Students.
Tier Five: Working visitors such as Commonwealth working holidaymakers and youth exchange participants.
