Skip to content

Sim Login

LCCI calls for a London-only visa scheme

London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has today published its report on a potential London-only visa scheme.

Permits, Points and Visas: Securing practical immigration for post-Brexit London addresses two main issues regarding post-Brexit immigration policy which the LCCI feel are integral to the future of London:

  1. The treatment of the 771,000 EU nationals who are currently employed within London firms: and
  2. The future migrant workers which London will need.

Using economic analysis from the Centre for Economics & Business Research (Cebr) which showed that non-UK migrant workers constitute 25% of London’s current workforce and any extension of the Tier 2 system to include EEA migrants could result in substantial economic losses, the report has made the following recommendations:

  • The Mayor of London should champion a single-issue ‘London Work Visa’ granting ‘indefinite leave to remain’ – this would reassure current EU national employees and their London employers
  • The Government should consider ‘Targeted Migration Area’ designation for the London Region within the UK Immigration system – this would manage London’s significant skills and labour requirements
  • The Government should task the Migration Advisory Committee with maintaining a separate ‘Shortage Occupation List for London’ (as Scotland has) – this would attract the skills and talent necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the capital’s economy
  • The Mayor of London should explore the potential for a dedicated ‘Capital Work Permits system’ – this would provide controlled access for future migrant workers and meet London employers’ need for skilled labour
  • The capital’s established business organisations (eg: LBAC) and the Office of Mayor together could seek UKVI licensing as the Work Permit Sponsorship body for the London region

Members of the Smith Stone Walters team were present at discussions leading up to the publication of this report and would be glad to answer any questions which you may have.

Smith Stone Walters is a UK immigration practice, helping people move to the UK is our business. Contact Us for up to date, friendly and professional immigration advice.


Insight magazine

Insight magazine

The team is outstandingly helpful, incredibly professional, exceptionally efficient, and impressively proactive. Their dedication and commitment are truly commendable.

JK, Accounting Company

Exceptionally efficient and seamless delivery of services. Very friendly and helpful Consultants.

MG, Law Firm

Super professional and responsive!

RM, Private Client

A very pleasant and clear process with Smith Stone Walters. The team were always responsive, helpful, and positive.

WS, Software company

Top notch experience. Thank you for your incredible promptness and patience in answering all the queries.

AK, Technology Company

The whole team were the epitome of professionalism throughout the process. I would not hesitate to recommend Smith Stone Walters and have already done so.

NG, Healthcare Company

A big thanks to SSW for their support and guidance, it has been a pleasure working with them on my case.

LA, Private client
Thank
you
We’ll be in touch shortly!