The UK Government today announced the go-live date for new visa categories for skilled and temporary workers under its points based system (PBS). These visas will come into effect on 27 November - updating and consolidating around 30 previous schemes, including the old work permit system.

As part of Tier 5, a new Youth Mobility Scheme for nationals of Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan will be launched to replace the old Working Holiday Maker Scheme. The new scheme will allow Canadians between the age of 18 and 30 to work in the UK for up to two years compared to just one year under the previous scheme.

The introduction of the points system is part of the biggest shake-up to the UK immigration system for 45 years. It will reinforce the UK's position as a destination of choice for foreign workers, while tightening control against those who seek to abuse the system.

Border and Immigration Minister Phil Woolas said:

"Cultural exchange between countries brings huge benefits and broadens the experience of those involved. The new Youth Mobility Scheme is a great opportunity for young people from participating countries to experience life in the UK for up to two years. Under this cultural exchange programme, young people from the UK can enjoy similar opportunities in those countries."

Youth Mobility Scheme applicants will have to prove they are a citizen of Canada, are between the ages of 18 and 30 and have the equivalent of £1600 available to support themselves in the UK on arrival.

British High Commissioner Anthony Cary said:

"I'm delighted that young Canadians will be able to take advantage of the new Youth Mobility Scheme . This is a great opportunity, both for them, and for the UK. The scheme offers a very flexible visa, which will allow visa holders to work to support themselves while they experience and enjoy life in the UK for a few years. Applications can be made via our website from 27 November 2008"

To qualify under the separate Tier 2 arrangements, skilled workers can score a certain number of points to allow them to work in Britain. These points are awarded only if a person can prove they will be doing skilled work and have a recognised qualification. Points will also be awarded for prospective earnings. Employers in Britain will need a licence from the UK Border Agency to offer jobs to skilled workers. Highly qualified workers in Canada should also check out Tier 1 of the scheme, which launched in June.

The Points Based System is just one part of the huge shake-up to the immigration system, which includes locking those travelling to the UK into one identity through the introduction of fingerprinting for all visa applicants, a new hi-tech system for counting people in and out of the country and the rollout of ID cards for all foreign nationals.

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