How immigration proposals affect universities

19 February 2020

Commenting on the Government’s proposals for a new points-based immigration system, Ben Moore, policy analyst at the Russell Group, said:

“The Russell Group is delighted that the Home Secretary has listened to universities and lowered the salary and skills thresholds for workers, allowing our members to recruit for a wider range of roles essential to research. Commitments to cut red-tape and remove caps on skilled labour are a very welcome shift from the current system.

“We are pleased to see the structure of the student route maintained. It will allow the UK to retain its position as a magnet for brilliant students from around the world, benefiting universities and the wider country. We encourage Government to now bring forward their graduate visa, so international students can apply with confidence in their post-study offer.

“Bringing visa fees into line with other research-intensive nations would be a further step to make the UK more competitive.

“Our universities will always be at hand to work with Government to ensure the UK has an immigration system that attracts global talent while maintaining public confidence.”

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