Points Based Visas and Work Permits for the UK
There are 5 proposed tiers within which people applying to come to the UK to work or study will be categorised. Points will be awarded to reflect aptitude, experience, age and also the level of demand in any given sector.
According to the 5 tier structure, those who are the most skilled professionals will automatically have enough points to come to the UK without a job offer and seek work or set up a business. This group includes doctors, scientists and top-flight entrepreneurs. Workers in this category will have the most flexibility in the UK and greatest opportunities to settle for good because the system regards them as having the most potential for generating wealth and creating jobs. This is likely to be somewhat similar to the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) and will allow employment without sponsorship by an employer.
Other Tiers of the Points Based System will replace existing UK work permit, student, low-skilled and other categories. It is not anticipated that the new rules will alter Spouse or Dependant Visas.
Tier 1 - Highly skilled individuals
Tier 2 - Highly Skilled individuals with a job offer