Tier 1
Tier 1 of the points based system is aimed at highly skilled individuals. The tier is divided into four sub-categories, and none of these require the individual to have a job offer or a Certificate of Sponsorship from an employing organisation in the UK. The sub-categories within this tier are as follows:
For migrants who wish to find highly skilled employment or self employment in the UK. This sub-category has been based upon the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme. The HSMP was replaced by this Tier 1 sub-category during 2008. The main scoring areas of age, qualifications, earning power, and UK experience remain more or less intact from those previously included in the HSMP. In these areas, as with the HSMP, an applicant must score 75 points in order to qualify. In addition, an applicant must score a further 10 points by meeting an English Language requirement, and a further 10 points for meeting a (financial) maintenance requirement.
The Post Study Work “visa” replaced the International Graduate Scheme during the summer of 2008. It is based largely on the same criteria as the IGS, and will allow those who have graduated in the UK the right to remain and work in the UK for 2 years. To be eligible, a person must have completed an approved course of study at a recognised institution of Higher or Further Education. This sub-category of Tier 1 also carries a maintenance requirement. Unlike the other Tier 1 sub-categories, however, this is intended to provide only a transitional route to individuals wishing to persue their career in the UK, and, therefore, time spent on the Post Study Work “visa” will not count towards residency or Indefinite Leave to remain.
For migrants investing in or setting up a business, and being actively involved in the running of it. This sub-category aims to replace both the previous/existing Businesspersons and Innovators routes. An amount of at least £200,000 needs to be available for the purpose of investing in a business in the UK. The investment sum can either be provided by a third party or the funds could belong to the individual applicant. The investment can be made in an existing business or in a new venture.
For high net worth individuals wishing to make a substantial financial investment in the UK. This sub-category is only applicable for those who hold at least £1m of (their own) disposable funds (in an account with a regulated financial institution) or hold personal assets of at least £2m, with an amount of at least £1m accessible to and disposable by them, which may be loaned. The Tier 1 Investor category will replace the previous Investor category.
