IMMIGRATION NEWS WEEKLY ROUNDUP - 21st JULY 2023

Welcome to our weekly newsletter, where we keep you informed about the latest developments in UK immigration.?

In this edition, we bring you significant updates that shed light on the government's efforts to ensure channel security, address concerns over the newly passed Illegal Migration legislation, enhanced opportunities for youth workers, ease restrictions in the fishing and construction industry to tackle?labour?shortages,?revolutionization?of entry clearance records through ETA.?

Following a series of successful votes in Lords, the Illegal Migration Bill is poised to become law. This legislation holds tremendous significance in the government's commitment to curbing the influx of small boats crossing the English Channel. By imposing a legal obligation on the home secretary to detain and remove individuals entering the UK unlawfully, the newly passed law aims to strengthen border security.?

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has voiced apprehension over the potential implications of this law. He cautions that other countries, particularly in Europe, may be tempted to follow the UK's lead, leading to the erosion of asylum-related obligations. This development underscores the need for careful examination and international dialogue on this matter.

Another development evolved,?as the government announced its proposal to fund this pay rise by increasing fees for migrants applying for visas and accessing the NHS has ignited controversy. Charities, unions, and politicians have criticized these plans as deeply unfair and deliberately divisive. This ongoing debate emphasizes the need to strike a balance between fair remuneration and the financial implications of immigration.

Positive news emerges on the work visa front in a few spectrums.???The governments of Canada and the United Kingdom have made a commitment to provide enhanced work opportunities for young individuals in both nations. This?endeavourseeks to empower Canadian and British youth, enabling them to achieve their full potential.?

As part of broader reforms within the fishing industry, the UK government is implementing measures to ease restrictions and introduce the ￡100m UK Seafood Fund.??Those working in shortage occupations will benefit from lower visa fees and the ability to qualify for a visa by earning 80% of the usual job rate. The regular review of the shortage list, with the next review anticipated in the autumn, ensures that the industry's needs are continually assessed and addressed.

The complexities brought about by Brexit, the pandemic, and broader economic developments have presented significant challenges in?labour?immigration to the UK. In the context of both major political parties' aspirations for a high-wage, high-skill economy, it becomes crucial to address the resulting?labour?shortages. Understanding and effectively tackling these hurdles are essential for maintaining a thriving economy and meeting the nation's workforce needs. Further analyses on this area are addressed in independent reports in our weekly newsletter.?

The new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme system, set to launch in October for Qatari nationals and in February for individuals from other Gulf Cooperation Council countries and Jordan, aims to facilitate smooth and efficient travel to the UK. Following the implementation of the ETA scheme in these regions, a global rollout is planned for 2024. This initiative signifies the UKVI's commitment to streamlining immigration processes and providing a seamless experience for visitors.

This and more are covered in our Immigration News Weekly Roundup. The full list of updates on media news, reported case law and Home Office Policy and other document updates, visit our blog?here

We hope these updates have provided valuable insights into the ever-evolving landscape of UK immigration. Stay informed, engaged, and watch this space for further developments.?

To keep yourself updated with the latest news, please subscribe to our mailing list?here?