High Value Migrants
Previously the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP)
Tier 1 of the Points Based System is for High Value Migrants applying for immigration to the UK. It replaces the HSMP.
There are four types of Tier 1 immigration application:
How does Tier 1 work?
Under Tier 1, applicants must accrue the necessary points to qualify for immigration to the UK. There are a number of areas where points can be gained (see below – ‘Attributes’ and ‘Controls’).
The documentary evidence of your points must meet specific requirements. These are laid out in a Policy Guidance for each type of Tier 1 visa.
The Entry Clearance Officers assessing the applications do not have authority to exercise discretion – if the documentary evidence is not exactly as specified in the Policy Guidance the immigration application is refused, with no refund and no appeal!
Tier 1 is difficult to get right on your own. Many people apply multiple times before getting it right. Why not use our expertise and inside knowledge, and get it right first time? We’d love to work with you!
If you need to expedite your visa let us know!
HSMP and Tier 1: the story…
For those who have heard of ‘HSMP’ (the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme), and are confused as to how Tier 1 fits in, the story is this: the HSMP was the first points based visa route into the UK. Applicants had to make an application directly to a government department within the UK and, if successful, would be issued with a letter confirming their success. Applicants would then have to apply for a visa by using this letter. As such, the process was comprised of two steps.
In 2009 Tier 1 (General) was introduced to replace the HSMP. At the same time, Tier 1 (Investor) and Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) were introduced, replacing previous visa routes for those wishing to invest in the UK financial markets or set up a business in the UK. With Tier 1 it is a one-stop shop – you apply directly to the UK Border Agency either in the UK or overseas, who assess everything and either issues or refuses your visa based on that one application.
Unfortunately Tier 1 (General) was closed as of 6 April 2011. The other Tier 1 routes remain, and Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) was introduced on 9 August 2011.
Tier 1: the future…
Tier 1: Post-Study Work will also be closed in April 2012.
Tier 1: Investor and Tier 1: Entrepreneur are ongoing, and now offer quicker routes to permanent residency (‘Indefinite Leave to Remain’, or ‘Settlement’) for increased investment/turnover.
For more information see our blog.