Kenyans Without University Degrees to Start Getting UK Work Permits

A new immigration system that allows highly skilled Kenyans without degree-level qualifications to work in the UK has taken effect.

The points-based system kicked in on Friday after the UK and the European Union reached a post-Brexit trade agreement last month.

This means highly-skilled Kenyans will from Monday, January 4th access work permits for employment in Britain even without degrees.

The UK’s post-Brexit immigration rules lower the requirement for foreign job seekers to the minimum skill level of A-level or equivalent from degree-level under the EU bloc system.

The UK Home Office said the aim of the new points-based immigration system is to provide greater flexibility to ensure the UK business has access to a wide pool of skilled workers.

Kenyan professionals in fields such as IT, accountancy, plumbing, and electrical works will benefit from the relaxed visa rules.

“Under the new system, those wishing to live and work in the UK must gain 70 points – and points are awarded for criteria such as having a job offer, holding a Ph.D. relevant to the job, speaking English and earning more than £22,000 per year,” an advisory by the Home Office says.

“There are also additional points for those with job offers in ‘shortage occupations’.”

The relaxed visa rules will also allow Kenyan students to stay longer after graduating from UK universities to find jobs. 

International students who complete their studies will be able to stay in Britain for two years for undergraduates and three years for Ph.D. holders.

The UK assured that the new system will treat everyone equally.