The non EEA skilled worker cap has been hit again this month, now for the third month running. Many Tier 2 sponsors have seen their Restricted CoS applications refused causing delays to new recruits start dates. Some of these businesses have been trying to obtain a CoS since December.
Sponsors need to assign a Restricted CoS to those who will be applying for a Tier 2 General visa from abroad and who will be paid less than £159,600 per annum. The annual limit is 20,700 and they are divided into 12 monthly allocations. As we get closer to April, the number of CoS available starts to dip below 1,500.
Statistics released by the Home Office confirm that a minimum of 46 points were needed to succeed. Applications are scored and prioritised based on criteria set by the Home Office and typically, roles on the Shortage Occupation List, graduate roles recruited via a milkround, PhD level roles and roles attracting high salaries are prioritised.
In March, only 1,126 CoS are available for allocation and in April as the new CoS year starts, the number will increase to 2,200. If you are thinking about delaying your Restricted CoS application until the quota increases, you should check to see if your Resident Labour Market Test is still valid.