The UK passed reform on immigration standards in 2008, implementing a points-based tiered system. There are five tiers you can apply under: Tier 1, which replaced the highly skilled migrant programme; Tier 2 for skilled workers; Tier 3 for low-skilled workers; Tier 4 for students; and Tier 5 for temporary workers. If you plan on staying longer than six months, you must obtain one of these visas.
Student visas are available for university students wishing to study in the UK. If you plan on studying for under 6 months, no visa is required, but you must obtain a student visa for a lengthier stay. Restrictions on Tier 4 are that the student must be between 4 and 17 years old and enrolled at a fee-paying institution. Students who are 16 or 17 year old and studying at the National Qualifying Framework level 3 or higher have the option of applying for a Tier 4 Child or a Tier 4 General visa. Students at the B2 level of the Common European Framework must apply for a Tier 4 General visa.
Tier 1 visas have been subdivided into 4 levels: general migrants, investors, entrepreneurs and post-study workers. You must have a sponsor if you plan on applying as anything other than a general worker. Additionally, you must show proof that you have sufficient funds: a balance of at least 2,800 pounds in your bank account for the last three months, and an additional 1,600 pounds for each dependent you are bringing with you. You must also accumulate at least 80 points on your application, which are based on age, education, previous earnings and UK employment or education experience.
Money talks when it comes to acquiring points. If you have earned the equivalent of 150,000 pounds in 12 of the last 15 months, you accumulate 80 points. Points are reduced for lower income bands, down to 5 for salaries between 25,000 and 29,999 pounds.
You earn points for your education as well: 80 points are awarded to those with MBA degrees who enrolled before June 29, 2008 and who graduated within 12 months of their application; 45 points go to PhDs; 35 to those with masters; and 30 for a bachelor's degree; proof of passing an English language curriculum garners 10 points. Folks under age 30 get an automatic 20 points, ages 30--34 get 10 points, and ages 35-39 5 points.
