Point Based System
Point Based System
2008 has seen the biggest overhaul of the UK's immigration system for over 45 years with the launch of the Points-Based System. Under the new Point Based System the 80 or so established routes of entry into the UK are beingreplaced with a system that allows entry under one of 5 Tiers.
Our Immigration lawyers are fully versed on the Points Based System and our team is able to assist both employers and individuals with applications under the Points Based System, as well as assisting employers with sponser registration.
Key vategories under the Points-Based System include:
Tier 1 (General), catering for highly skilled migrants. Tier 1 (General) was launched worldwide on 30 June 2008 and now replaces the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme.
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur), catering for individuals investing in the UK by setting up or taking over, and being actively involved in the running of one or more businesses in the UK. Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) was launched on 30 June 2008 and replaces the entrepreneur category.
Tier 1 (Post-Study Work), catering for international graduates who have studied in the UK. Tier 1 (Post Study Work) was launched on 30 June 2008 and replaces the previous International Graduate Scheme
Tier 2 (General) , catering for sponsored skilled workers from outside if the EEA. Tier 1 (General) will replace the existing work permit scheme and is due to be launched in November 2008.
Tier 2 (Ministers of Religion) , catering for those coming to the UK as a religious worker with recognised religions and intending to preach to their community and/or perform a pastoral role.
Tier 2 (Sports People) , catering for elite sports persons or coaches who intend to base themselves in the UK, are internationally established at the highest level, and whose employment will make a significant contribution to the development of their at the highest level in the UK. Tier 2 (Sports People) is due to be launched in November 2008 and will replace the work permit scheme for sportspersons.
Tier 4 (Students), catering for international students. Tier 4 is expected to be launched in 2009 and will replace all of the current student categories.
Tier 5 (Temporary Workers - Religious Workers), catering for ministers of religion coming to the UK on a temporary basis as a religious worker in a non-pastoral role, where duties include performing religious rites, but not preaching to a congregation.