Tier 1 of the points based system – highly skilled migrants
Tier 1 caters for highly skilled workers who sponsor their own applications by scoring points. Tier 1 applications may be made either from inside or outside the UK and comprise the following categories:
Tier 1 General
Points are scored in respect of:
- academic qualifications
- age
- previous earnings
- UK experience (work or study in the UK)
- ability to maintain themselves
- knowledge of English language
Successful applicants may work in the UK for any employer or be self-employed for an initial period of 3 years. If they are able to meet the required level of earnings over this 3 year period, they may extend their stay by a further 2 years taking them to a point where they may be eligible to apply for permanent residence in the UK.
Tier 1 Post Study Work
This category is for graduates from UK academic institutions. Successful applicants will be allowed to undertake any type of employment for 2 years. It is a transitional category to encourage non EEA UK graduates to seek a career in the UK. Within the 2 year period those in this category must switch into the Tier 1 General category or be sponsored under Tier 2. If they are unable to do either, they must cease working in the UK unless they qualify to remain outside the Points Based System.
Tier 1 Investors
Investors seeking to live in the UK under this category must invest a minimum of £1million in the UK, £750,000 of which must be invested in a regulated financial institution.
Tier 1 Entrepreneurs
This scheme encourages non EEA nationals to establish, join or take over a business in the UK by investing at least £200,000.
