In this episode of The Global Mobility Series, Bruce Mennell, founder of AORA Law, sits down with Kevin Foster, former UK Minister of Immigration and architect of the Skilled Worker Visa Scheme.
Kevin, who spearheaded the development and implementation of this landmark program, now joins AORA to enhance how businesses navigate the complexities of the Skilled Worker and Global Business Mobility visas.
From Policy Architect to Innovator
Kevin Foster’s tenure as Minister of Immigration was nothing short of transformative. “I spent three years overseeing the Skilled Worker Visa and student visa systems, among others,” he shared. These initiatives were designed to simplify the immigration process and align it with the UK’s post-Brexit labour market needs.
Now at AORA, Kevin is applying his expertise to simplify immigration processes further, focusing on reducing administrative burdens for businesses. “I’m excited to explore what we can do to make the Skilled Worker Visa and Global Business Mobility Visa even more accessible and efficient,” Kevin explained.
The Skilled Worker Visa: From Concept to Reality
Kevin’s role in launching the Skilled Worker Visa Scheme was pivotal. As he recounted to Bruce, the scheme aimed to create a straightforward process for businesses hiring international talent. “A lot of companies hadn’t engaged with the immigration system before Brexit. We wanted to make it as seamless as possible,” he said.
The scheme’s success lies in its clarity and predictability. However, Kevin reflected on areas for improvement, such as adjusting salary thresholds dynamically to reflect market changes. “Hindsight shows us the need for a more regular review process, particularly post-pandemic,” he noted.
Automation: A Game-Changer for Immigration Processes
Kevin’s excitement about AORA’s potential is palpable, especially regarding automation. “Automation removes mundane data entry tasks and reduces errors,” he emphasized. For businesses frequently navigating the skilled worker system, tools like AORA can save time and focus energy on core decision-making.
Kevin explained how automation transforms complex processes, like recruiting a nurse under specific pay scales and qualifications. “You’re not just typing in details repetitively. Automation allows fee earners to concentrate on critical decisions, ensuring compliance and efficiency.”
The Future of Business Immigration
Looking ahead, Kevin foresees global business migration becoming more skill-focused. “It’s going to be about unique skills—doctors, IT technicians, veterinarians—that cannot be easily sourced locally,” he predicted. Routine roles, by contrast, are less likely to benefit from immigration solutions, as governments prioritize high-value contributions.
Kevin also emphasized the growing demand for user-friendly solutions like AORA: “Businesses don’t want to be bogged down in form-filling. They need intuitive systems that allow them to sponsor workers efficiently.”
Why Kevin Chose AORA
When asked what drew him to AORA, Kevin highlighted the system’s sophistication and the team’s expertise. “The core product is solid. In under 10 minutes, you can go from filling out a questionnaire to having a completed application ready for submission,” he said.
He also praised AORA’s team, led by Bruce Mennell, for their deep understanding of business needs: “You’re building something that saves time and delivers clarity—whether it’s telling someone they qualify or saving them from pursuing a non-viable application.”
Final Thoughts
Kevin Foster’s move to AORA Law signals an exciting new chapter in the evolution of immigration technology. His blend of policy expertise and innovative thinking promises to elevate how businesses engage with immigration systems. As Kevin puts it, “At the core, it’s about delivering a solid product that simplifies the process while ensuring compliance.”
For more insights into immigration, global mobility, and how technology can streamline these processes, tune in to The Global Mobility Series and visit AORA Law.