Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson has announced a series of planned changes to the island’s immigration system, to be presented to the Council of Ministers early in the new year.
The proposed measures include further increases to minimum salary requirements and greater restrictions on those wishing to bring dependents.
Dr Allinson told MHKs the intention is to “address the risks the immigration system is currently facing”.
On aligning with UK changes, Dr Allinson said, “we are monitoring those changes, because one of the issues we face is obviously the decision to align ourselves far closely with the United Kingdom Immigration Service and requirements”.
JSA
Responding to concerns about local employment, the minister pointed to “the latest figures in terms of the number of vacancies available and the almost record low number of people claiming Job Seekers Allowance”.
On integrating the work permit system with visa processes, Dr Allinson pointed to the need for legislative change, noting it is “an important development going forward”.
Julie Edge pushed for greater urgency on changes, saying she fails to see why it needs legislative change.