Tier 1 General HSMP UK Highly Skilled Visa

The Tier 1 General HSMP Visa replaces the previous Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP).



If you are currently in the UK then you can switch to the Tier 1 HSMP General Visa if you hold one of the folowing visa categories:

• Employer Sponsored Work Permit (WP1)
• Highly Skilled Migrant Programme
• Tier 1 Skilled Visa seeking extension
• Student Visa (if you have graduated from the course for which your student visa was approved
• Investor Visa
• Innovator Visa
• International Graduates Scheme (IGS)
• Post-Graduate Doctors or Dentists

If you are in the UK without any of the above visa categories then you will have to return to your home country to apply for the Tier 1 General HSMP Visa.

Tier 1 General will provide an initial visa period of 3 years and allow you to work for any employer in any capacity. At the end of this period you will need to meet the points requirement for an extension of a further 2 years. After this you can apply for Permanent Residence

To qualify for the Tier 1 HSMP Highly Skilled Visa you must meet the following criteria:

• Primary Points-Scoring Requirements
  You must score at least 75 points to qualify for the Tier 1 HSMP Highly Skilled Visa. Points are awarded for your age, education, past earnings and UK experience.
  
  Find out if you qualify using our Tier 1 General HSMP Highly Skilled Visa Points Calculator.



• Maintenance
  You will need to show sufficient available funds to evidence your ability to support yourself and your family while looking for employment.



• English Language
  You will need to evidence your English language ability, either by way of nationality, education to a certain level in specific countries or an English language test such as IELTS.