Tier 1 (General)
Do you want to be self-employed or start your own company in the UK?
Are you unhappy being tied to a single employer?
Are you looking to change employers freely?
Want to work in the UK but can't find an employer to sponsor you?
Are you being made redundant?
The Tier 1 (General) scheme is a new version of the UK government’s previous Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) scheme. The main aim of this scheme is to allow successful applicants to migrate to the UK for exceptional candidates even if they do not have an employment offer before arrival; they may enter the UK to seek and take work or self-employment. It is also possible to switch to Tier 1 status from within the UK under limited circumstances such as from a current UK work permit.
Tier 1 (General) is a points system based on age, qualifications, previous declared earnings and any UK qualification or work experience. In addition Tier 1 (General) applicants must also score points for English language and availability of funds. For further information on the points system click here.
The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) has been discontinued as from 30 June 2008. Existing HSMP permits remain valid and may be extended under the Tier 1 (General) if the holder can demonstrate that they meet the requirements of the Tier 1 scheme.
Try our Tier 1 (General) points calculator by clicking here.
For further information please contact:
We can advise on all aspects of the UK government’s new 5 Tiers of the new Points Based System including initial and extension applications, reviews and appeals, as well as permanent residency in the UK after a qualifying period.