Exceptional Talent in Science and the Arts
Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) is for world- leaders, or potential leaders, in the fields of science and the arts.
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 (under ‘Attributes’ and ‘Controls’).
‘Attributes’
To qualify for Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) you must gain sufficient points under the ‘attributes’ section. There is one area where points must be gained for a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) initial application.
Endorsement by a Designated Competent Body (75 points):
At present the list of Designated Competent Bodies comprises
- The Royal Society
- The Arts Council England
- The British Academy
- The Royal Academy of Engineering.
‘Controls’
For extensions applications only, extending an existing Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent)
English (10 points):
As English is the most widely spoken language in the UK you must demonstrate sufficient competence in the language to gain the 10 points. You can do this by:
- being a national of a majority English-speaking country, or
- passing a specified English language test (see the Tier 1: Entrepreneur Policy Guidance for tests which qualify), or
- holding a degree that was taught in English and is equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or above.
Quota
There is a quota of 1000 Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visas issued per year.
Requirements
The documentary evidence of your points must meet specific requirements. These are laid out in the Policy Guidance for the relevant type of Tier 1 visa.
The immigration 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 can be refused, with no refund!
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!
Other types of Tier 1 immigration application: