Leading Lawyer Calls For Greater Clarity

A leading business immigration expert says the hospitality sector needs greater clarity about the proposed changes to laws which could make it easier for businesses to recruit chefs and hotel managers from abroad.

Mandeep Khroud from Irwin Mitchell says she welcomes the news that certain hospitality jobs could be added to the ‘shortage occupation’ list. However, she is calling for the new rules to be straight-forward and clearly communicated so all businesses in the sector can take advantage.

According to recent reports in the national media, the Migration Advisory Committee (MPC) has been asked by Government ministers whether the hospitality industry should be on the list of sectors where there is a shortage of workers.

Currently inclusion on the list results in the salary threshold under which foreign workers can qualify for a skilled worker visa is lowered by 20%.

It is understood that the MAC is recommending that this is removed over concerns that it is driving down wages within the profession. A decision is expected by the government shortly.

Expert Opinion

“An occupation being added to the ‘shortage occupation list’ currently means that it’s eligible for sponsorship even if it is below the usual skills threshold required for skilled worker visas. For an industry that has encountered challenges following the pandemic and Brexit, attracting new talent and creativity to the country will be hugely beneficially.

“Visa application fees for ‘shortage occupation list’ jobs are reduced, and a salary discount is also usually applied, although the Migration Advisory Committee has advised upcoming changes to this scheme.

“There are some significant changes to immigration laws coming down the track for the sector which could have a beneficial impact, but in order for businesses to plan ahead, it’s important that greater clarity is provided sooner and that the new rules provide simplicity and not greater complexity.”
Mandeep Khroud from law firm Irwin Mitchell