UK government lifts Tier 2 visa annual cap for PhD applicants

The UK government will remove the Tier 2 visa limit for scientists and researchers with PhD qualifications. First time this proposal was announced by David Cameron in October 2011. Besides, the Home Office will add a new exception in requirements for obtaining ILR status for those who were absent in the country more than 180 days in every continuous residency periods of 12 months. Excessive absence will not be a reason for refusal if it is related to “research activities abroad.” The new changes will come into force this autumn in attempt to attract “the brightest and best” especially in the context of Brexit and the reduction in the number of immigrants from EU countries.