A new points-based immigration system intended to police the number of skilled immigrants coming to work in Britain will be unveiled today.

The new guidelines mean that workers entering the country from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) will have to gain the required number of points and show evidence of a job offer before they can enter the UK.

Legislation in place has made it the recruiter’s responsibility to check the identity of non EU immigrants. Penalties for employers in breach of the rules could mean a fine or even prison.

Changes made to the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) last August ensured skilled migrants are allowed to remain in the UK following a report by The Joint Committee on Human Rights.

Points will be awarded on the applicant's qualifications, salary prospects and age.

Liam Byrne, border and immigration minister said: "Our new points system means that British jobseekers get the first crack of the whip and that only the skilled migrants we actually need will be able to come,

"By moving points up or down, we can make sure the numbers we allow in to the UK are in line with the needs of business and the country as a whole,"