19/05/2020

Immigration Bill voted through the House of Commons

On 18th May 2020, the Immigration Bill was voted through the House of Commons. This is the first step to ending free movement with the EU.

EU citizens who arrive in the UK after 31 December 2020 will be subject to the same immigration control as those outside the EU, whilst the government is also planning to introduce a new immigration points-based system to come into effect in 2021.

The Home Secretary announced that the new system would lead to a “high skill” economy, although many have already criticised the government’s distinction between “skilled” and “unskilled” workers, particularly in light of the effects of COVID-19 and the need for key workers. Some have called for the government to reconsider or postpone their planned changes to immigration. However, yesterday’s result suggests that the government is currently forging ahead.

If you would like to read more about the new immigration system, please follow this link.