UK tightens borders

The British government will be introducing a new points system for determining the eligibility of migrants for entry to the UK as highly skilled workers.



Under the system only individuals with skills that are needed in the UK will be allowed in the country.



The UK government says Tier 1 of the new Australian style points based system will come into effect on June 30.



Applicants will be able to earn points for their qualifications, previous earnings, competence in English language and ability to support themselves and their dependents.



They can then calculate whether their points add up to entry as a highly skilled worker before making an application.



The British embassy says under the new system the initial visa will be granted for three years instead of the two under the previous system.



Further tiers relating to students, workers with a job offer and temporary workers will be rolled out over the next 12 months.



The embassy says applications for visits including family visits, and settlement will be processed in the usual way and do not fall under the points based system.



The introduction of the new system follows a tightening of British border security arrangements.