Immigration Points Based System Advice

Immigration News

Read the latest immigration news  and try the Immigration points based calculator.

Visas

Do I need a visa?

Categories for working in Scotland

Working in Scotland 

Skills Shortages

Are my skills needed in Scotland? Skills shortage oocupation list.

Immigration System

How does the immigration system work? The Points based system explained

Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP)

I am already working in Scotland on HSMP. What do I need to do?

Transitional arrangements for people on the highly skilled migrant programme

What are the different Tiers in the immigration system?

Tier 1

Tier 1 - Highly skilled migrants, general   Guidance valid from March 2009

• Tier 1– Entrepreneur
• Tier 1 (Post Study route) From 31st March 2009 applicants will receive no points for post graduate certificates and diplomas other than UK Postgraduate Certificates of Education.
• Where can I find out more about setting up in Business?

Tier 2

No one can qualify under this Tier unless they have a certificate of sponsorship from a UK employer who is licensed to sponsor migrant workers - Employers sponsor register

 Tier 2 has four sub-categories:

• Tier 2 – Skilled workers, general
• Tier 2 – Sports people
• Tier 2 –Ministers of religion 
• Tier 2– Intra company transfer  

Tier 2 General applicants will have to show that they have enough points to qualify.

Can I work out online if I have enough points? Use the Points calculator.

Tier 3

Tier 3 – unskilled workers-arrangements are not yet in place.

Tier 4

• Tier 4 – Students
• In-country application form and guidance notes
• Entry clearance application forms (VAF9 and Appendix 8)

Tier 5

• Tier 5 – Youth mobility scheme
• Tier 5 – Temporary workers

Finding the correct application form

How can I find the right Home Office form?

Where can I get help with my application?

Contact the Relocation Advisory Service (RAS) for free advice.

The UK Border Agency launches online booking for appointments.