UK IMMIGRATION NEWS

Skilled Migrant Scheme for UK has been introduced

Wednesday, 2 July 2008

A points based skilled migrant scheme has been introduced on the 30th of June 2008 for migrants wishing to live in the UK.

Though the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) visa has been very successful since its introduction in 2002, the UK government has now announced the introduction of a new system for assessing highly skilled migrants wanting to work in the UK from 30th June 2008.

The new 'Tier 1 (General Scheme)' is already placed in the UK for many visa types, but these new changes will extend the 'Tier 1' scheme to HSMP visas, as well as investor, entrepreneur, and post-study work visas.

"The UK is a fantastic place to work and develop for those with the skills we need." said Immigration Minister Liam Byrne in a press release. "A points system has worked well in Australia and I think it will work well for Britain."

Tier 1 builds upon the success of the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme and is aimed at attracting applicants who have high skills or who wish to establish themselves in business or invest in the UK. Tier 1 replaces eight former immigration categories:

The categories that will close are:

• the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP);
• business people;
• writers, composers and artists;
• Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme;
• International Graduates Scheme;
• Innovators;
• Investors;
• Self-employed lawyers.

The new Tier 1 (General) points system has not been changed significantly from the HSMP Programme. The MBA provision has been deleted and there was an introduction of Maintenance clause under the new points system. However, the other criteria are very similar.

If you are interested in UK Visas, contact Migration Expert for information and advice on which visa is best suited to you. You can also try our visa eligibility assessment to see if you are eligible to apply for a visa to the UK.