Tier 2
You must have a Sponsor in the UK before applying under this category. Your Sponsor will be your employer, and it is mandatory that they apply/obtain a Sponsor Licence before you can apply under this category. You need a total of 50 points which can be earned through your qualifications, future expected earnings and sponsorship (that your Sponsor has obtained a Licence and has issued a Certificate of Sponsorship for you. The Certificate of Sponsorship is not a paper document but a reference number which is generated once your employer has completed an online form confirming your details and the details of the job). You will also need 10 points for your English Language and 10 points for Maintenance.
You will be granted permission in this category for an initial period of 3 years, with the ability to extend your stay for a further 2 years. You will be able to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) once five years has been completed under this category.
Calculating your points may seem straight forward but, you must consider whether your job meets the required level for this category. Your job may have to be advertised depending on the nature of the position. You may also be in the UK as a Tier 1 (Post-Study Work) migrant or your job could be on the shortage occupation list, all factors which will determine the number of points awarded. There are also certain arrangements in place if you are in the UK under the Work Permit scheme and you want to extend your permission to stay.
It is important to also understand if you are able to switch into Tier 2 (General), apply inside the UK or if you have to apply from your home country. We can assist employers with their Sponsor Licence applications, assist you with calculating your points and prepare your Tier 2 (General) application whether you are applying inside or outside the UK.
This category is designed for those who wish to come to the UK as a religious worker within a religious organisation for 2 years or more.
You must score 50 points for a Certificate of Sponsorship. This is not a paper document but a reference number generated once your Sponsor (the religious organisation) has completed an online form confirming your details and the role. You will also need 10 points for your English Language and 10 points for Maintenance.
It is important to ascertain your duties as a religious worker as this will determine whether you fit into this category or if you may have to apply under another Tier.
The Sportsperson category is for internationally established sports people and coaches who will make a significant contribution to the development of his/her sport at the highest level in the UK.
You must score 50 points for a Certificate of Sponsorship. This is not a paper document but a reference number generated once your Sponsor has completed an online form. In order for the Certificate of Sponsorship to be issued, your Sponsor will need to have an endorsement from the appropriate governing body for your sport. You will also need 10 points for your English Language and 10 points for Maintenance.
It is necessary to ascertain the nature of what you will be doing in the UK as a sportsperson, as you may wish to come to the UK under the Visitor rules.
Tier 2 (Intra Company Transfer)
If you would like to transfer from an overseas organisation to a skilled position in a UK-based branch of the same company, you may be eligible to apply under Tier 2 (Intra Company Transfer). The UK-based branch must be registered as a Sponsor and obtain a Sponsor Licence before you can apply to transfer to the UK.
The position does not have to be advertised but, there are a number of requirements that you need to satisfy under this category and the documents required must conform to the UK Border Agency’s policy guidance. We can advise you as to your eligibility for this category and guide you through the process.