UK visa changes mean good news for South Africans in STEM

In an effort to attract top scientists and researchers from around the world, the UK government wants to create a fast-track visa for people skilled in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

The UK Government said in its announcement that it is hoping that by introducing this visa, which will be valid for three years, it will enhance the intellectual and knowledge base in the UK.

The launching of this new immigration route is indeed very good news for scientist and researchers looking to work in the UK.

The route will be open to all nationalities, irrespective of whether they are EU or non-EU citizens. The route will reportedly also be launched regardless of the terms of the UK leaving the EU.

Immigration consultants Breytenbachs believes this new immigration route will create many opportunities for professionals in the STEM fields.

The advantages of the fast-track visa for scientists and researchers:

The new fast-track visa will offer great opportunities for individuals who qualify under this immigration route. Persons who apply successfully will receive a three-year visa.

During their stay in the UK they can come and go from the UK at will. They will also qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain in the UK, after only three years.

Dependents of the main visa holder will be able to join the main holder in the UK. Adult dependents will be able to work in the UK without any restriction.

Another advantage of this new visa route, is that this new visas  will have no minimum salary requirement or minimum salary threshold. There is also no need for applicants to secure a job before arriving in the UK.

The Home Office said that the new fast-track visa will in fact be the Tier 1 Exceptional Talent route rebranded. It will be re-branded to recognise the need to attract global talent in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

The Home Office will remove the cap on the current Tier 1 Exceptional Talent route.  The uncapping of the route will ensure that applicants who qualify will be assured of a place.

The new fast-track visa will be available for application later in 2019.

Image source: Unsplash

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