The European Union (EU)

did not have a unified points-based immigration system similar to systems implemented in countries like Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom. Instead, immigration policies and requirements for EU member states were determined individually by each country. These policies varied significantly from one member state to another.

However, some EU member states did have their own points-based or merit-based immigration systems for specific visa categories. These systems were designed to attract highly skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors. The eligibility criteria and point allocation systems were unique to each country and could include factors such as education, work experience, language proficiency, and investment in the country’s economy.

Here are a few examples of EU member states that had points-based immigration systems or similar schemes as of my last knowledge update:

Germany: Germany has a Blue Card system for highly skilled non-EU workers. To be eligible, applicants needed a recognized university degree and a job offer with a minimum salary threshold. Points were not used in the same way as in some other systems, but qualifications and job offers were essential factors.

Portugal: Portugal’s Golden Visa program allowed investors to gain residency by investing in the country, such as purchasing real estate or creating jobs. While it did not use a points-based system, it attracted investors seeking European residency.

France: France has a Talent Passport program that aimed to attract highly skilled workers. It considered factors such as education, work experience, and salary. Points were assigned to each criterion, and applicants needed to meet a minimum threshold to be eligible.

Netherlands: The Netherlands has a Highly Skilled Migrant Program that allows skilled workers to live and work in the country. The program is based on income requirements and other factors.

Austria: Austria has a Red-White-Red Card system, which is points-based and categorizes skilled workers, graduates, and other individuals based on specific criteria such as qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency.

Spain: Spain has various visa and residence permit categories with specific requirements, and eligibility for these permits depends on factors such as family reunification, employment, study, investment, and other circumstances. While Spain does not use a points-based system in the same way as some other countries, there are several visa and residence permit categories through which individuals can apply to live and work in Spain.

The United Kingdom (UK) had introduced a points-based immigration system, known as the “UK Points-Based System,” which applies to both EU and non-EU citizens wishing to work, study, or settle in the UK. The UK’s immigration system underwent significant changes following its departure from the European Union (EU).

United Kingdom: The UK had a well-known points-based immigration system. It assessed applicants based on points earned through factors like job offer, skills, salary, English language proficiency, and education. The system categorized visas into various tiers, such as the Skilled Worker Visa and the Tier 1 Investor Visa.

What are some key points regarding the UK Points-Based System that EU member states Can Apply Under:

Skilled Worker Route:

The Skilled Worker route is a central component of the UK Points-Based System. Under this route, individuals can apply for a visa to work in the UK if they have a job offer from a UK employer and meet specific eligibility criteria. Points are awarded based on factors such as skill level, English language proficiency, and salary level. Applicants must score a minimum number of points to be eligible.

Global Talent Route:

The Global Talent route is for individuals with exceptional talent or promise in fields like science, research, engineering, humanities, and the arts. This route does not require a job offer and allows individuals to work in the UK or apply for settlement.

Intra-Company Transfer Route:

This route is for employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to the UK branch of their organization. Points are awarded based on factors such as salary and job role.

Student Route:

The Student route allows international students to study at UK universities and institutions. Points are awarded for having a valid offer from a licensed educational institution, English language proficiency, and financial ability to support oneself during the studies.

Investor and Entrepreneur Routes:

The UK also has routes for investors and entrepreneurs who wish to start or invest in businesses in the UK. These routes have specific investment and business requirements.

Graduate Route:

The Graduate route allows international students who have completed a degree in the UK to stay and work, or look for work, in the UK for a certain period after graduation.

Family Reunification: Family members of individuals with UK visas may be eligible to join them in the UK. Eligibility and requirements for family reunification can vary based on the specific visa category.

English Language Requirement:

Many visa categories under the UK Points-Based System require applicants to demonstrate their English language proficiency through approved English language tests.

Minimum Income Threshold:

Some routes, such as family reunification, may have minimum income thresholds that sponsors must meet to bring their family members to the UK.

Applying for Settlement:

Some visa routes may lead to settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK after a specific period of time, while others may not.

Please note that immigration policies and regulations can change, and the UK government may have made updates to the Points-Based System since my last knowledge update in September 2021. If you are considering immigrating to the UK or have specific questions about the Points-Based System, it’s advisable to consult the official UK government website or contact the UK Home Office for the most up-to-date and detailed information on visa requirements and eligibility.

It’s essential to note that immigration policies and regulations are subject to change, and individual EU member states can adjust their requirements and programs over time. Additionally, the EU may develop more coordinated immigration policies in the future, although such developments were not in place as of my last update.

If you are interested in immigration to an EU member state, I recommend consulting the official website of the specific country’s immigration authorities or seeking advice from a qualified immigration attorney or consultant who can provide you with the most up-to-date information on immigration requirements and processes for that country.