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Immigration to the UK

The UK Immigration system has developed into one of the most robust immigration systems in the world.

Over the past couple of years the United Kingdom Border Agency (UKBA) has completely overhauled immigration routes into the UK and has replaced them with a new points based immigration system for UK Visas. This new point’s based UK immigration system consists of 5 tiers and is open to all individuals outside of the European Union (EU).




visa box

Currently, India ranks as the largest group of people who have been granted British Citizenship, with Pakistan, Somalia and the Philippines following suit. India also ranks as the largest group of persons granted Tier 1 General Skilled Visa, formerly called the HSMP (Highly Skilled Migrant Permit).

In 2004 a mass number of Eastern European countries flooded the EU, which was spurred on by the free movement of labour act with in the EU (European Union).  The largest of these migrant groups is resting on skilled labour from Poland.

The new tiered points based immigration system allows the UKBA to better manage the supply and demand of skilled labour, together with obtaining which individuals obtain indefinite leave to remain or ILR (as its commonly known) and ultimately British Citizenship.

Obviously those immigrants who are able to demonstrate skills which are in demand in certain industry sectors are much more sought after. Further to this, skilled migrants whose skills fall on the critical skills list or shortage occupations list will be highly attractive and looked upon favourably by the UK Immigration system. Various occupations which are currently in demand are: Teaching, Engineering, Nursing and Ballet dancing to name a few.

Through the Youth Mobility Scheme (Tier 5) the UK opens its borders to younger individuals who may not have developed the skills and /or experience necessary but are still interested in visiting the UK. The scheme is open to individuals of age 18 – 30, and entitles the holder to work for up to 2 years.

A number of the UK Visas do lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or as it’s often called permanent residency and ultimately British Citizenship.

 
visa box

Why 1st Contact?

When you apply for a visa, you have two options:

  1. You can take the DIY route and work directly through the UK Border Agency website  
  2. You can work through an agency like 1st Contact Visas.

While doing things yourself could save you money in the short term, the benefits of working with us could outweigh many risks and implications that you could face in the long run.

With us, you get:

  • Help with your specific application. We don't believe that any visa application is generic – you have a different background and may have very unique needs from the next applicant.
  • Industry expertise. We're known for being specialists in the immigration industry. With over 250 staff in our London, Melbourne and Cape Town offices, we have the knowledge and resources to make sure your migration journey runs smoothly.
  • Dedicated consultants, here to talk you through your visa options.
  • Less stress. We apply on your behalf, and take care of the admin for you.
  • No gimmicks. If you don't get the visa, we don’t charge for our services.