Tier 1 Visa Extension (UK General Highly Skilled - HSMP)
The Tier 1 Visa (General Highly Skilled) replaced the previous and popular Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) some years ago and allowed working in the UK for an initial period of 2 years without needing a job offer. This visa was probably the most popular work visa for the UK and offered the most flexibility as you could work for any employer in any capacity, including setting up your own business.
The Tier 1 General Visa was closed to all new applicants on 5 April 2011 and is now only available to those wishing to extend their current HSMP Visa or Tier 1 General Visa.
If your application is urgent and you will be applying in the UK then we can offer Same Day Visa Processing at the Croydon PEO. Contact us for further information.
Qualifying Criteria for the Tier 1 Visa Extension
To qualify for the Tier 1 General Visa Extension you must meet the following criteria:
- Primary Points-Scoring Requirements
You must score a minimum level of points to qualify. Points are awarded for your age, qualifications, past earnings and UK experience. The qualifying mark will depend on when you first applied for your Tier 1 General or HSMP Visa.
Find out if you qualify using our Tier 1 Visa Points Calculator.
If you score enough points then you can request a free assessment and receive expert advice and guidance from one of our highly experienced Immigration Lawyers.
- Maintenance
You will need to show sufficient available funds to evidence your ability to support yourself and your family. - English Language
You will need to evidence your English language ability, either by way of nationality, education to a certain level in specific countries or an English language test such as IELTS or PTE Academic. If you have previously proven your English Language ability, which should be the case, then you will not need to do so again.
All time spent in the UK while holding Tier 1 General Visa status counts towards Indefinite Leave to Remain. After spending 5 years in the UK holding continuous Tier General, HSMP or Tier 2 General Visa status you will be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, also known as ILR or Permanent Residence.
If you need your application decided urgently then we can offer a same-day service. An appointment is usually available for the next week, although places are limited, and the decision is usually granted on the day of the appointment. A Qualified Immigration Consultant will take your application to the Home Office and return with the decision - we do not use couriers to do this. If you use our document check service or engage us for full representation of your case then a discount is offered on the fee for this additional service. Please either contact us by clicking the link above or call us on the number in the footer of this website.
HSMP Visa holders in the UK
If you are currently in the UK with HSMP Visa status and you need an extension then the extension will be considered under the Tier 1 Visa rules that were in place prior to 30 March 2009. If you were approved for HSMP after 5 December 2006 then you will not need to evidence your English Language ability when making an extension application.
Find out if you qualify using our Tier 1 Visa Points Calculator.
Your Dependants and Family Members.
Your dependants can be added to your Tier 1 General Visa at the time of application and they will all have to complete a PBS Dependants application form.
