Changes to UK immigration policy 'not currently under consideration' in the Isle of Man

Difference between UK and Manx policy at almost £20K difference

Changes to UK immigration policy, which make it more difficult for people from overseas to enter to live and work, are not currently under consideration in the Isle of Man.

A government spokesperson told Manx Radio that changes as significant as those being introduced in the UK, would have to be considered by the Council of Ministers, who would decide if the current immigration structure remains in the best interests of the Island, or whether a new approach is required.

From next year people wanting to work in the UK will need to earn at least £38,700 before they could be considered for entry, though some jobs, in areas such as health and social care, would be exempt.

The new minimum UK earnings requirement is around 50 per cent higher than the current figure of £26,200, and although there's an exemption for health and social care workers, they will no longer be able to bring in family dependents.

In contrast current Isle of Man regulations stipulate a minimum earnings requirement of  just £20,800.

The potential effects of the new UK criteria on the Isle of Man are expected to be raised at this month's sitting of Tynwald.