Working in the UK

The Points Based System replaced most of the work based categories that existed before 2008/09. Some of the Tiers for the work based categories require employers to be registered with the UK Border Agency as Sponsors and they must have a Sponsor Licence before employing migrant workers. If you are an employer, we suggest that you see information under our ‘Sponsorship and Prevention of Illegal Working’ section, before deciding whether you want or can sponsor a migrant worker.

We can assist you with applications falling under the following categories:

  • Tier 1- Highly Skilled Workers (General), Entrepreneurs, Investors, Post-Study Work
  • Tier 2- sponsored skilled workers (General), Minister of Religion, Sports Person, Intra Company Transfer

The Schemes that closed on 29th June 2008 and for which you will no longer be able to apply under are as follows: Highly Skilled Migrant Programme, Business Persons, Investors (all changed and incorporated into Tier 1); Innovators, Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland ; International Graduate Scheme, Writers, Composers and Artists.

The Schemes that closed on 26th November 2008 and for which you will no longer be able to apply under are as follows: Work Permit holders (with the exception of Bulgarian and Romanian nationals); Ministers of Religion; Overseas qualified nurses and midwives; Members of airport-based operational ground staff of an overseas-owned airline.

Those who are currently in the UK under one of the schemes which have closed, may be able to extend into one of the categories under Tier 1 or Tier 2. We can assess your situation, calculate your points and to advise you accordingly.

Tier 1

Tier 1 allows highly skilled migrants and those who have the required funds, permission to work or set up a business or invest in the UK. The following categories fall under the umbrella of Tier 1:

Tier 2

Tier 2 is a route available to skilled migrant workers who already have a job offer from the UK. Please note that all categories under Tier 2 require a Sponsor (the prospective employer) to be able to make an application.

Tier 2 (General) replaced the Work Permit scheme on 26th November 2008, although Bulgarian and Romanian nationals may still need to apply for a Work Permit. You will need to pass a points-based assessment, scoring a certain number of points to qualify. The following categories fall under the umbrella of Tier 2: