In its ingoing effort to tighten immigration laws, the United Kingdom on Wednesday proposed a 'Green Card' system, wherein all immigrants will have to 'earn their stay' in the country.
According to a press release by the British High Commission, the proposal was drawn up after consultations with people from across the UK and a new bill to implement these proposals would be soon introduced in the Parliament.
The Green Paper is defined as a three-stage route to citizenship, including a new probationary period of citizenship, with stringent conditions, which require new migrants to demonstrate their contribution to the UK at every stage or leave the country.
Migrants will not have full access to social benefits until they have completed a compulsory probationary period. The proposal also asks migrants to improve their command of English to pass probation.
The new regulation bars anyone with a history of prison term from becoming a British citizen. Those providing extra financial help and contributing in other ways towards the betterment of migrant communities will be 'able to graduate to British citizenship more quickly'.
"Our new deal for citizenship is clear and fair. The rights and benefits of citizenship will be available to those who can demonstrate a commitment to our shared values and a willingness to contribute to the community," said Home Secretary Jacqui Smith.
"British people have welcomed migrants over the years. Our economy and our communities are stronger for their contribution to British life. And people think it's fair that the benefits of citizenship are matched by responsibilities and contributions to Britain," Smith added.
The Home Minister said that the recent proposals are part of the biggest changes to the British immigration policy in over a decade.
This year, a new Australian-style Points Based System will be introduced, "which will ensure that the UK attracts only people with the skills it needs," said Smith.
"In 2008, the government will deliver a complete overhaul of the way we decide who can come to Britain and the way we police the system," she added.
