For all queries please call us on 020 8346 3448 or email us at
brendan@bederlaw.com

What is the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme/ Tier 1 (General)?

The programme is designed to allow highly skilled people to migrate to the United Kingdom to look for work or self-employment opportunities. The Scheme was incorporated in the Points Based System in June 2008.
The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme is different from the Work Permit Scheme/Tier 2 because you do not need a specific job offer in the UK to apply.
It is different from business routes such as the Innovators scheme or other business categories because you do not need a detailed business plan; you do not need to create jobs; and you do not need to invest in the UK.


How do I qualify as a highly skilled migrant?
There is a points-based immigration scheme. Points are scored in the following main areas:

educational qualifications;
past earnings;
UK experience; and
age.
There is also now an English Language and Maintenance Requirement.

You need to score 75 points or more to qualify as a highly skilled migrant. You then need to score an additional 20 points for English Language and Mainenance. For further information please call Beder-Harrison & Co. on 020 8346 3448 or email us on brendan@bederlaw.com.

How long will I be allowed to stay in the United Kingdom as a highly skilled migrant?
At first, you will get permission to stay in the UK for 3 years to seek work or self-employment opportunities.

After the 3 years, you can apply to stay for a further 2 years but must continue to meet the requirements of the Scheme.

As a highly skilled migrant, can I stay in the United Kingdom permanently?
If you live in the U.K. continuously for five years with Home Office permission, you can apply near the end of the 5 years to live here permanently.
How can I get more information?
To get more information about the programme you should read the FAQs on this site. Guidance notes and the application forms for the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme are available from our information desk or from "www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk" website. Alternatively, please call us on 020 8346 3448 or email us on brendan@bederlaw.com to discuss your specific particulars.