UK's Post-Brexit Points-Based Immigration System Threatens Art World

The UK's new post-Brexit immigration system, effective from January 1, 2021, imposes strict points-based criteria for EU citizens wishing to work in the country. Applicants must have excellent English, high qualifications, and a job offer with an annual salary of at least £25,600, scoring at least 70 points. Over 70% of EU citizens currently in the UK are estimated to lack the necessary qualifications. The system, modeled on Australia's, prioritizes sectors with labor shortages but contains no provisions for artists or creative professionals. This threatens London's status as a global art capital, as many artists, teachers, and cultural workers may leave. US artist Doug Fishbone, interviewed in Corriere della Sera's L'Economia, warned that art students and faculty, who form the backbone of London's artistic energy, are considering departure. The lack of cultural exemptions is seen as a potential 'cultural suicide' for the UK, which has historically benefited from cross-pollination of ideas from international creatives. The transition period ends on December 31, 2020.