New immigration rules could stifle SME growth and innovation - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
Briefly

New immigration rules could stifle SME growth and innovation - London Business News | Londonlovesbusiness.com
"At BizSpace, we support hundreds of different SMEs, and we see first hand every day how crucial adaptability is for businesses in this challenging landscape. With the Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's recent announcement regarding proposed immigration changes, it's clear that these modifications could have significant implications for British SMEs across various sectors, many of which are already navigating a precarious job market."
"The plan to double the qualifying period for permanent settlement from five to ten years could deter skilled workers who might otherwise see the UK as a viable destination. This extended timeline poses a risk to sectors like technology, healthcare, and engineering, where the competition for talent is fierce. Companies in these fields rely on a steady influx of skilled professionals to drive innovation and maintain operational efficiency. Stricter immigration policies such as those outli"
UK political parties are considering stricter immigration measures including an A-Level English requirement and extending the qualifying period for permanent settlement. These changes risk reducing access to skilled migrants, particularly affecting SMEs that depend on adaptable hiring and diverse talent. Sectors at greatest risk include technology, healthcare, engineering and social care, where competition for skilled workers is intense. BizSpace's Head of Marketing warns that longer settlement timelines and stricter requirements could deter prospective migrants, impair innovation and operational efficiency, and exacerbate workforce shortages. A balanced approach is needed to support SME growth while maintaining a fair immigration system.
[
|
]