Great Britain: three main entry pathways in the future migration system

On 13 July the government unveiled a 130-page document setting out its future migration policy that comes into effect on 01 January 2021 (c.f. article No. 11668). When the UK’s EU-exit transition period comes to a close at the end of 2020, for most migrants from all over the world seeking entry to the UK access will be available via one of the following three pathways: the Skilled Worker route for qualified employees, the Global Talent route intended for researchers and doctoral students, as well as for artists, and the Start-up and Innovator route that is reserved for those setting up and running a business. Anyone, including those from Europe, wanting to live and work in the UK, and arriving from 2021 will have to comply with the new points-based system that draws on the immigration system in place in Australia for qualified manpower.
Enjoy this article for free while you’re in your trial period
You have access to our content for 1 month.

As a specific pathway for qualified employees, the ‘Skilled Worker route’ will not limit the number of visas issued. However, for applicants to be successful they will need to secure 70 qualification points. The official document states that 50 points will have to be come from compliance with mandatory criteria (holding a job offer of a certain level, being able to speak English…) and 20 points can come other so-called negotiable data (salary levels, jobs offered in sectors with recruitment dif

Do you have information to share with us?
What you absolutely must read this week
The essential content of the week selected by the editorial team.
See all
France: sectors feel economic slowdown to differing degrees
The latest data on France’s occupational sectors (branches professionnelles), covering the year 2023, show how employment trends are shaping workplace dynamics. After a more favourable period for...
United Kingdom: Parliament finally passes Employment Rights Bill
The UK Labour government's flagship reform of employment rights was passed by both houses on 16 December after a turbulent parliamentary process. The bill introduces numerous changes to labour...
18 December 2025
EU: social partners in telecoms sign joint statement on AI
On 16 December, the social partners in Europe's telecommunications sector unveiled a joint statement on artificial intelligence. They propose an action plan for skills and commit to raising...
18 December 2025
EU: MEPs demand directive on algorithmic management
Members of the European Parliament have called for a directive on algorithmic management. Such legislation would introduce obligations for companies to inform employees, assess health and safety...
17 December 2025
Most viewed articles of the month on mind HR
What readers clicked on the most last month.
What readers clicked on the most last month.
1
Spain: new terms and conditions for in-company training contracts
On 25 November, Spain's Council of Ministers approved a regulation on training contracts. This text defines the terms and conditions for hosting work-study students and interns doing professional...
2
EU: Commission issues first recommendation on human capital as part of European Semester
In parallel with the European Semester adopted on 25 November, which proposes guidelines to member states on economic policies for the coming year, the European Commission has adopted an...
3
France: sectors feel economic slowdown to differing degrees
The latest data on France’s occupational sectors (branches professionnelles), covering the year 2023, show how employment trends are shaping workplace dynamics. After a more favourable period for...
4
Germany: apprenticeship openings fall sharply in manufacturing and chemicals
From 1 January 2026, Dutch collective agreements for temporary employment agencies will alter the employment conditions of temp workers. Agencies will be required to pay these workers at least the...