New Point based Immigration System for UK comes into vogue

UK announced first phase of its points-based system for non-EU immigrants. In the first phase, this system would apply to highly skilled workers, who are already in UK and wish to extend their visas. The new system is heavily loaded against the low-skilled workers from outside the EU, who have been barred for the immediate short term future.

New system replaces existing immigration rules to UK. Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said the new measures were "part of the biggest changes to British immigration policy in a generation". These changes, basically offer a new deal for migrants seeking UK citizenship, and introduction of ID cards for foreign nationals.

Under the new rules, businesses which want to sponsor and employ migrants require to be licensed by the Border and Immigration Agency. Though these rules would come into force from Autumn, yet potential employers can begin applying for licenses from today.

Employers hiring immigrants in contravention of the rules would face Jail term for two years under the new measures. New system is directed to stem the flow of illegal immigration and is expected to deliver a severe blow to unscrupulous immigration agents.