UK Points Based System - Work Permits & Visas
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
As of 29 February 2008, only the Tier 1 Visa of the UK Points Based System has been introduced. This currently only applies to in-country Tier 1 Visa applications made by those on specific visas within the UK and applications by those based in India.Those currently outside the UK and not in India who are considering HSMP, should be aware that this new proposal does not affect them in any way at this time. As many individuals discovered to their cost when HSMP rules changed in November 2006, changes can mean that you no longer have the option that you were planning on using.
The potential involvement of Embassies in deciding applications has caused widespread concern. Many of our Consultants recall the delays encountered when applications were submitted at Embassies, even though it was still the Home Office who decided applications. Many of our Client's have had bad experiences when making applications at the Embassies. Embassies have no experience in dealing with work permit or HSMP applications and it is questionable as to whether all Embassies around the world can possibly deal correctly and efficiently with, for example, HSMP applications (Tier 1 under the new system). If applications become Embassy based then it will be more important than ever to ensure that you have your application represented by a UK authorised representative with many years experience to ensure that your application is not unfairly or incorrectly rejected. As always, using a UK company registered with the OISC gives you the reassurance that there is a regulatory body in place to protect your rights.
If you qualify for HSMP now, then we strongly recommend that you apply for HSMP now.
The UK Points Based Sytem is, as the name suggests, a points-based method of qualifying for UK work permits and visas. The system is split into five distinct Tiers:
- Tier 1 HSMP Highly Skilled Visa
For innovators, entrepreneurs, highly skilled individuals and post-graduates in the UK, replacing the International Graduates Scheme (IGS), Innovator Visa, Entrepreneur Visa and Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP); - Tier 2 - skilled workers with a job offer, e.g. nurses, teachers, engineers;
- Tier 3 - low skilled workers filling specific temporary labour shortages, e.g. construction workers for a particular project;
- Tier 4 - students; and
- Tier 5 - youth mobility and temporary workers, e.g. working holiday makers or musicians coming to play a concert.
