Guide to UK Points System Tier One.
Tier 1
Tier 1 covers highly skilled workers and was introduced on 29 June 2008. It is split into a number of sub-categories each with their own requirements.
Tier 1 (General)
Tier 1 (General) applies to highly skilled potential migrants looking for a job or wishing to become self-employed in the UK, and has replaced the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP). Applicants to Tier 1 (General) are awarded points for attributes including age, previous or prospective salary and qualifications. Applicants must score at least 75 points for primary attributes and 10 points each for English language and having the necessary funds to ensure maintenance in the UK. Applicants do not need to have a formal job offer made by a licensed UK employer in order to apply under this category.
The current Highly Skilled Migrant Programme has been phased out over the course of 2008 and highly skilled migrants already in the UK now come under Tier 1 of the new points-based system.
Tier 1 (Post Study Work)
Under Tier 1 (Post-study work), students who have successfully completed a first or postgraduate degree at a UK institution can apply for permission to work in the UK for 2 years without needing a work permit. Postgraduate certificates and postgraduate diplomas have not been eligible since April 2009.
Post Study Work combined the previous International Graduates Scheme (IGS) and Fresh Talent – Working in Scotland Scheme (FTWiSS) into a single UK-wide 2-year work scheme. Those working under the IGS can switch into the new scheme for a maximum total leave of 24 months.
The UK Border Agency describes Tier 1 (Post Study Work) as “a bridge to highly skilled or skilled work. People with Post Study Work leave will be expected to switch into another part of the points system as soon as they are able to do so”.
Key features:
- To apply in the UK, applicants must have obtained their qualification with the immigration status of student or dependant. Those who obtained their qualification with another status, or who completed their studies outside the UK, must apply in their home country.
- Those switching in the UK from student to Post Study Work need to show they have had a cash reserve of at least £800 for at least three months, with this 3 month period ending no longer than 30 days before the application. Those applying for entry clearance in their home country will need to show a cash reserve of at least £2800.. Applicants with dependants need to show additional maintenance.
- The application fee to extend leave in the UK under Post Study Work is £500 by post, or £700 in person. Entry clearance applications for the scheme at a British Embassy or High Commission are expected to increase to £205 (£200 for FTWiSS and IGS).
- The deadline for applying is 12 months after “date of award”, which is defined as the actual date when formal notification of the result was received.
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur)
The Entrepreneur subcategory is for those wishing to setup or take over a business (or businesses) in the UK that they will be actively involved in running. It grants 3 years leave and those applying must have over £200,000 of funds.
Tier 1 (Investor)
The Investor subcategory is for those who wish to invest £1,000,000 in the United Kingdom. Like the Entrepreneur type, it offers 3 years grant of leave.
Costs:
Forms:
Guidance:
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