United Kingdom

This content was last updated in February 2026.

The UK completely overhauled its immigration system for employment-related visa applications in 2008. The introduction of a points-based system, sponsorship licenses and compulsory identification cards for foreign nationals was part of the biggest shake-up to immigration and border security in 45 years. There have been further alterations to the points-based system since December 2020, to date with more changes on the horizon.

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