UK IMMIGRATION NEWS

Immigration News: UK small firms warned of talent shortfall in the downturn

Monday, 17 November 2008

UK small firms should retain their most talented employees as the country’s skills shortage increases despite the current early stages of global recession.

Migrant workers from Eastern Europe are leaving the UK to escape its economic downturn. Coupled with this, the Points Based System (PBS), which places stricter rules for recruiting migrant workers, is likely to cause small firms big problems.

The number of Eastern Europeans applying to work in the UK has fallen to its lowest level since 2005, according to recent official Home Office statistics.

The figures reveal that between January and March 2008 there were 45,000 applications from nationals of the new eight members that joined the EU in 2004 – reduced by 13% from the same period in 2007, when there were 52,000.

The number of work visa applications to the UK from Bulgarians and Romanians has also markedly decreased since EU expansion, with only 8,205 applications made in the first three months of this year, compared to 10,420 in the same period last year.

According to figures from the Federation of Small Businesses, 48 % of SMEs in the UK is employing non-UK workers. A shortage of skilled workers means that it is critical for businesses to hang on to their best employees.

Good news for those who consider migration is that the UK is still welcoming migrants to help build the country and boost the economy. The UK need migrants with skills and experience to strengthen its economy, so now may be the best time to consider making the move!

The national shortage occupation list for skilled workers under Tier 2 of the PBS includes healthcare and engineering occupations, social workers, and teachers. The Home Office have added new occupations, electricity generation engineers and high integrity pipe welders, to the list in June this year.

If you are interested in UK Visas, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to the UK.