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Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP)
The scheme below is gradually being replaced by the General sub-category of the new Tier 1 for Highly Skilled Migrants. In country applicants moved over to the new Tier from 29 February 2008 with out of country applicants from India doing so from 1 April. "Rest of world" out of country applicants will do so from summer 2008.
| Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) | |
|---|---|
| Qualifying criteria | The HSMP is a points-based immigration scheme.
Full details of the scheme are available from UK Border Agency |
| Permitted work | No restrictions on type of work. |
| Who applies where? | Applicant applies at British High Commission, embassy or consulate or, if already in the UK (e.g. as a student or work permit holder) to the Border and Immigration Agency. |
| Duration of leave | Applicants are normally granted 24 months of leave initially. |
| Extending the leave | Towards the end of the 24 months, applicants can apply for further approval under the HSMP, and to extend their stay in the UK on this basis. If they meet the requirements, they will normally be granted further leave of up to three years. |
| Applying for settlement | A Highly Skilled Migrant may apply for settlement after five years. |
| Family and dependents | Highly Skilled Migrants may apply to bring dependent children under age of 18 and spouse or long-term partner to the UK. |
| Cost of application | See charges and fees |
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