New UK Immigration Norms to hit Non-European Union skilled immigrants

The newly elected government finally come up with the numerical cap on its work permit for non-EU workers. The new permanent limit entering the United Kingdom will come into effect from April 2011. It will be announced after 12 week consultations within the government and with businesses and other interested groups.

Indians comprising the bulk of non-EU skilled immigrants to Britain- could be the worst affected after the British coalition government on Monday confirmed a stringent interim limit of 24,000 on work permits to be issued between July 19 and March 31 next year.

Home Secretary Theresa May said: “The government believes that Britain can benefit from migration but not uncontrolled migration. I recognize the importance of attracting the brightest and the best to ensure strong economic growth, but unlimited migration places unacceptable pressures on public services.”
It is widely understandable that this step will bring major fundamental changes in the way workers from outside the European Union will be chosen. It is also believed that high income group professionals may be excluded from the immigration curbs.