This article was originally written as commentary on whether the UK should introduce an Australian-style points system. Since then, the UK immigration system has changed significantly, including the development of points-based work routes.
2026 check: Work visa rules, salary thresholds, eligible occupations and sponsor requirements can change. Treat this article as historic commentary and check current GOV.UK guidance for any work visa application.
Historic background
At the time this article was written, the UK was debating how to manage migration after Brexit. Public debate often compared the UK system with Australia’s points-tested migration system.
UK points-based work routes
The UK now uses points-based work routes for many applications. In practice, applicants may need to meet requirements such as a qualifying job offer, licensed sponsor, skill level, salary and English language ability, depending on the route.
Does this affect Thai family visa applicants?
Work visa routes are separate from visitor visas and family visas. A Thai girlfriend visiting the UK, or a Thai wife applying under the spouse or partner route, is assessed under different immigration rules.
What applicants should do now
- Check the current visa route on GOV.UK.
- Do not rely on old commentary about proposed immigration systems.
- Check whether a licensed sponsor is required.
- Review salary, skill and English requirements for work routes.
- Use the family visa rules for spouse, partner or fiancé(e) cases.
How Thai Visa Express can help
Thai Visa Express mainly assists with UK visitor, spouse, partner and family visa applications from Thailand. We can help identify whether a family or visitor route is more appropriate for your circumstances.
Official guidance
Contact Thai Visa Express if you need help understanding which UK visa route applies.