Points Based System for UK Immigration

Points Based System

As changes to UK immigration takes place, the next 12 months will see significant changes made to the way in which foreign nationals apply for, and are granted the opportunity to live and work in the UK.

The new Points Based System (PBS) has been developed to enable the UK to manage its migration programme more effectively. The overall objective of the PBS is to make it easier to control UK immigration and tackle abuse, while also helping to identify and attract the most talented workers.

Along with emphasising the importance of immigration compliance and employer responsibility toward the prevention of illegal working by licensing and sponsorship, the changes will also see the introduction of a new 5 tier visa system.

5 Tier Visa Categories

Under the Points Based System, the existing routes via which migrants can apply to come to the UK to work or study will be transformed into 5 visa or "Tier" categories.
Some of the key elements of the system include:

Tier 1 visa - highly skilled migrants
Tier 2 visa - foreign nationals with a job offer in the UK
Tier 3 visa - low skilled workers
Tier 4 visa - students
Tier 5 visa - temporary workers and working holidaymaker

Each tier will need sufficient points to obtain Entry Clearance or Leave to Remain in the UK.

If you are a highly skilled migrant who is applying to come to the UK under Tier 1 of the Points Based System (the category designed for highly skilled migrants) you will NOT need a sponsor. All other applicants applying under tier 2-5 of Points Based System will require a sponsor.

The Border and Immigration Agency (BIA) will release comprehensive guidance notes prior to implementing each new tier.

To find out more about how the introduction of the Points Based System will impact on your business and to learn how Work Permits Direct can manage and support all of your Points Based System licensing and sponsorship requirements, contact us. today.