Tier 1 Visa (General) Migrants
What is the Tier 1 Visa?
The Tier 1 visa is by far the visa of choice for highly skilled migrants as it does not require a sponsoring employer in the UK. It will allow you to live and work in the UK for an initial period of 3 years, after which you may apply for a visa extension.
The Tier 1 visa is being introduced to replace the highly skilled migrant programme (HSMP) visa, which is being phased out.
Tier 1 eligibility
Eligibility for the Tier 1 Visa is assessed using a points based system. Points are awarded on the basis of:
- Age
- Academic or professional qualifications
- Previous earnings
- Work experience in the UK
You must also demonstrate that you have a good knowledge of the English language, and that you have sufficient funds to support yourself – especially if you are a new arrival in the UK.
Your previous earnings are particularly important when considering eligibility. If you have already been working in the UK and trading as a limited company, or as part of an umbrella company, you may find it difficult to provide this information. As a firm of chartered accountants, tax experts, independent financial advisors and visa specialists, 1st Contact Visas have the knowledge, experience and expertise to minimise the stress of obtaining your visa.
Length of Stay
Initially you will be able to stay in the UK for 3 years, after which you may apply for a visa extension. This application will also be judged using the points based system. After 5 years of residency in the UK on your Tier 1 visa (or a combination of other specific employment visas, not including the working holiday visa), you may apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), or as it is commonly referred to, permanent residency.
The new Tier 1 visa will also incorporate a category called Post-Study Work. This will allow for recent international graduates of UK institutions to have a bridging visa to the Tier 1 migrant category. It will only be granted for 2 years, during which the individual would be expected to switch to a Tier 1 visa once eligible.
What Next?
Want to check your eligibility for the Tier 1 migration scheme? Or simply wish to know more about the programme and what 1st Contact can do for you?
Please call one of our friendly, experienced visa consultants today to discuss your UK visa options or take the free online assessment.
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