With the UK’s departure from the European Union only 49 days away, if you recruit from the EU, you need to be aware of the new requirements for recruiting staff from the EU. Planning your selection and recruitment for the new process is more important than ever.
What’s happening?
From 1 January 2021, as an employer, you will need to register as a licensed sponsor to hire eligible people from outside the UK. Note: This does not apply to Irish citizens.
A new points-based immigration system will introduce job, salary, and language requirements that will change the way you hire from the EU.
The new system aims to treat EU and non-EU citizens equally and transform the way employers recruit.
How to become a sponsor
By applying to be a sponsor you should:
- Check that the people you want to hire will meet the requirements for coming to the UK for work
- Check your business is eligible
To apply you will need:
Choose the type of skilled worker license you want to apply for
Put appropriate systems in place to act as a sponsor
Apply online and pay the fee
Requirements for future employee
- A job offer from an approved sponsor
- The job offer must be at the required skill and salary level
- Must speak English at the required level
Who can you hire as a sponsor?
As a sponsor, you will be able to hire any eligible employees from around the world. Being a sponsor allows you to recruit skilled workers globally for 4 years.
To hire someone from outside the UK, the job you are advertising must meet the minimum threshold:
- The minimum skill level will be set at RQF3 (equivalent to A-level)
- The minimum salary threshold will be the higher of £25,600 or the ‘going rate’ for the job – some jobs may be allowed to pay less than £25,600 If the job is in a shortage occupation.
- Any applicants from outside the UK must also meet the English language standard
If the requirements are met and you are a licensed sponsor, you will be able to sponsor their application to come work in the UK.
All current working EU citizens are unaffected by the new system. EU citizens and their family members living in the UK can apply to the EU Settlement Scheme by 31st December 2020.
Souce: Gov.uk