Skilled Migration

UK Visas and Work Permits
The UK Points Based System awards visas based on meeting the minimum level of required points for each type of visa. Replacing the HSMP Visa (Highly Skilled Migrant Programme) is the Tier 1 Visa. This allows the individual to work for any employer in any capacity without the employer needing to sponsor the individual. Tier 1 of the Points Based System has several sub-categories, including the Tier 1 General HSMP Visa for highly skilled migrants and the Tier 1 PSW (Post Study Workers) for graduates of UK educational establishments. Individuals can find out if they might qualify for the Tier 1 Visa by using this Tier 1 Visa Points Calculator. Employers wishing to sponsor a work permit must now register with the Home Office before they can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (Work Permit) and the individual can then apply for a Tier 2 Work Permit.