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What is the Highly skilled Migrant Programme?
The programme is designed to allow highly skilled people to migrate to the United Kingdom to look for work or self-employment opportunities. The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme is different from the work permit arrangements because you do not need a specific job offer in the UK to apply and have the freedom to work for more than one employer.
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 and in most cases; you can also apply from inside the UK if you are here with Home Office permission.
However your leave to remain application will not be successful if you are in the United Kingdom as a visitor, on temporary admission, or without permission.
There are 2 parts to the process:
- Involves applying for Highly Skilled Migrant Status (current fee - £315.00)
- If approved, you then have to apply for Entry Clearance / leave to Remain (current fee £335.00)
HSMP is a points-based immigration scheme. Points are scored in four main areas:
- Qualifications
- Past Earnings
- Age Assessment
- UK Experience
Recent changes in the scheme mean that you will also be required to supply specified required evidence to meet the mandatory English Language requirement. You need to score 75 points or more and meet the English language requirement in order to qualify as a highly skilled migrant.
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How long will I be allowed to stay in the United Kingdom as a highly skilled migrant ?
At first, it is possible to get permission to stay in the UK for up to 24 months to seek work or self-employment opportunities. After 24 months, you can apply to stay for longer and may be granted up to a further three years' leave, but you must meet the criteria set down for an extension of leave.
If you live here continuously for five years with Home Office permission, you can make an application for Indefinite leave to remain.
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For further information:
Work Permits UK have a customer service office dealing with general enquiries relating to the HSMP -
Further information can also be found on the Home Office website:
www.workingintheuk.gov.uk - follow the links for Highly Skilled Migrant Programme
In addition, The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme: Guidance for Applicants gives more detailed information about the criteria and the application process including the points system and how they are awarded. The Guidance and Application Forms are both available from the 'All forms' section of the www.workingintheuk.gov.uk website.
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