The UK’s Post-Brexit Immigration White Paper: A Summary

Published in December 2018, the UK’s Immigration White Paper outlined the government’s proposed framework for a new immigration system following Brexit. It aimed to create a skills-based system that prioritized skilled workers and reduced reliance on low-skilled labour, treating EU and non-EU citizens equally.

Key Proposals:

1. Skills-Based System: The core of the white paper was a shift towards a skills-based immigration system. Points would be awarded based on factors like qualifications, salary, English language proficiency, and skills shortages in particular sectors. This replaced the free movement enjoyed by EU citizens with a system similar to that previously applied to non-EU nationals.
2. Skilled Worker Route: The Skilled Worker route, equivalent to the previous Tier 2 (General) visa, aimed to attract qualified individuals with a job offer from a licensed sponsor. The minimum salary threshold was initially proposed to be lowered to £25,600, but this was later adjusted. Emphasis was placed on ensuring that skilled workers met specific criteria aligned with the UK’s economic needs.
3. No Cap on Skilled Workers: The White Paper proposed removing the annual cap on the number of skilled workers allowed to enter the UK. This aimed to address skills shortages and allow businesses to hire the best talent regardless of nationality.
4. Temporary Worker Route: A new temporary worker route was planned for individuals who did not meet the requirements of the Skilled Worker route but were needed for specific roles for a limited time. This route included a lower skill threshold, but offered fewer rights and limited opportunities for settlement.
5. Ending Free Movement: The document explicitly stated the end of free movement for EU citizens. EU nationals arriving after the implementation of the new system would be subject to the same immigration rules as non-EU nationals.
6. Focus on Compliance and Enforcement: The White Paper emphasized stricter enforcement measures to combat illegal immigration and ensure compliance with immigration rules. This included increased funding for border control and tougher penalties for employers who hired illegal workers.
7. Settled and Pre-Settled Status for EU Citizens: The White Paper acknowledged the rights of EU citizens already residing in the UK before Brexit. The EU Settlement Scheme was designed to allow eligible individuals to apply for settled (Indefinite Leave to Remain) or pre-settled status, depending on their length of residence.

Impact and Legacy:

The Immigration White Paper served as the foundation for the UK’s post-Brexit immigration policy. While some aspects were modified during implementation, the core principles of a skills-based system and the end of free movement remained central to the new framework. The changes brought about significant adjustments for businesses, individuals, and the overall composition of the UK workforce. The full impact is still being assessed as the new system continues to evolve.