Highly Skilled Workers - Tier 1

Outlined below is general information about the process of obtaining residence as a Highly Skilled Worker, Entrepeneur, Investor or Post-Study Worker:   

1. Highly Skilled Worker

Eligibility

The highly skilled worker category is designed to allow highly skilled people to come to the United Kingdom to look for work or self-employment opportunities.To apply under the points-based system and be accepted into the highly skilled worker category, you must pass a points-based assessment. You must score:

• 75 points for your attributes (age, qualifications, previous earnings, and experience in the United Kingdom); and 

• 10 points for English language; and 

• 10 points for available maintenance (funds).

2. Entrepeneurs

Eligibility

The entrepreneur category is for those investing in the United Kingdom by setting up or taking over, and being actively involved in the running of one or more businesses in the United Kingdom.

To apply under the points-based system and be accepted into the entrepreneur category, you must pass a points-based assessment.

You must score:

• 75 points for your attributes which are different depending on whether you make an initial or extension application; and

• 10 points for English language; and

• 10 points for available maintenance (funds).

3. Investors

Eligibility

The Investor category is designed to allow high net worth individuals make a substanial financial investment in the United Kingdom.

You do not need a job offer to apply under the investor category. When you apply you are awarded points based on your ability to invest £1,000,000 in the United Kingdom.

4. Post-Study Workers

Eligibility

The post-study worker category allows the UK to retain the most able international graduates who have studied in the United Kingdom. It also enhances the United Kingdom's overall offer to international students.

To apply under the points-based system and be accepted into the post-study worker category, you must pass a points-based assessment.

You must score:

• 75 points for your attributes, which are a United Kingdom qualification, study at a United Kingdom institution, your immigration status during United Kingdom study and/or research, and the date of award of the qualification; and

• 10 points for English language; and

• 10 points for available maintenance (funds).