So how does this new system work? Previously there have been over 80 pathways into the UK to work, train and study. The points based system, the majority of which will come into effect at the end of 2008, reduces this to a new five tier structure.

This new system is based on a points structure: the more points you have, the more chance you’ve got of getting into the country, and staying.

People are awarded points based on specific criteria including aptitude, age and experience relative to the specific needs of the economy.

The top tier of the structure provides an entry route for highly-skilled workers, such as doctors and scientists. Those in this tier will automatically have enough points to enter the UK and will have a good chance of staying. The second tier is for skilled workers, including nurses and teachers, whilst the third tier is for lower-skilled workers. Entry through these routes depends on labour shortages and work offers.

The fourth and fifth tiers are for students and temporary workers respectively.
These bottom tiers provide temporary access to the UK with little prospect of a long term stay.

What impact will this have on migration management in the UK? Importantly, business will now play a central role in negotiating points and sponsorships. UK immigration will be shaped primarily around the needs of the labour market. For
example, if in 2009 there is a shortage of electricians, the points rewarded for being an electrician will increase. If in 2010 this gap has been filled, the points rewarded to electricians will be dropped.

Businesses will also play a central role in policing this new system. Employers will have to register as a sponsor and the Home Office stresses that it is the employer’s duty to ensure that foreign workers comply with their visa requirements.

This new points system is aimed at supplying the right people at the right time for the UK economy. For any person planning to migrate to the UK the new system will only acknowledge economic value and nothing else. In our current political system it isn’t surprising to learn that the government is concerned with points not people.