UK Immigration Visa for a Highly Skilled Worker (HSMP):
Highly Skilled Worker - UK Migration Program
How can I apply?
You should apply to the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme Team at Work Permits UK (WPUK) in Sheffield. You can apply from abroad. In most cases, you can also apply from inside the UK if you are here with Home Office permission.
Your application will not be successful if you are in the United Kingdom as a visitor, on temporary admission, or without permission.
How do I qualify as a highly skilled migrant?
There is a points-based immigration scheme. Points are scored in five main areas:
educational qualifications;
work experience;
past earnings;
your achievement in your chosen field; and
your husband's, wife's or unmarried partner's achievements.
You need to score 65 points or more to qualify as a highly skilled
migrant. Self-employed General Practitioners qualified to practice in the
UK may also apply under the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme.
How long will I be allowed to stay in the UK as a highly skilled migrant?
At first, we give you permission to stay in the UK for a year to seek work or self-employment opportunities. After a year, you can apply to stay for longer but you must be economically active.
As a highly skilled migrant, can I stay in the UK permanently?
If you live here continuously for four years with Home Office permission, you can apply near the end of the 4 years to live here permanently.
How can I get more information?
To get more information about the programme you should read the FAQs on the offical Working in the UK site. Guidance notes and the application forms for the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme are available from the forms section of that site.