The Conservative manifesto for the December 2019 general election promised an “Australian-type points-based system to control immigration”. A new system was introduced after the end of the Brexit transition period in January 2021.
The Government commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) — a non-departmental public body associated with the Home Office — to produce recommendations on the possible role of a points-based system and one on the appropriate level and design of salary thresholds. It made this report in January 2020.
The Home Secretary issued the details of a new points-based immigration system on 19 February 2020. The new system, which took effect from 1 January 2021, ended free movement and assigns points for specific skills, qualifications, salaries or professions. Visas are only awarded to those who gain sufficient points (70 points are required).
