Employers face tougher controls on migrant OOs

A tough new points-based system for migrants from outside the EU, including optometry students, could have an impact on the optical sector, Optician has learnt.

Launched earlier this year and coming into force in stages, the government's new system replaces the work permit regime which is being phased out.

The points-based system will be controlled by five different types of permission (five tiers) for entry. In principle, the more points the entrant scores against a set criteria the more likelihood of them achieving a permit.

Under new rules, qualified opticians from outside the EU could apply under the tier two category (skilled worker with job) which comes into force next month. However, Home Office guidance specifies that they will only be allowed in the UK if they have a job offer in a shortage area. Optician understands that optometry is not recognised as an area with a skills shortage. This means that in future optical employers will have to prove that they cannot fill a post with a worker from within the EU before appointing somebody from further field.