The new Highly Skilled Migrant Programme, HSMP, points-based system for immigrants, which came into force on the 29th of February 2008, will, according to PM Gordon Brown, let the right people into the UK. Based on the Australian points system, the new HSMP is a five-tier system replacing the previous 80 migration routes to the UK. The HSMP only applies to people from outside the UK and favours skilled and qualified immigrants.
Applicants under the HSMP will receive a score based on factors such as their age, education, work experience and command of English. In fact, all applicants will have to pass an English test, unless they have £1m or more to invest. Under the new HSMP, skilled wokers in occupations where there is a shortage will also be able to enter, as long as they have a job offer lined up.
The UK Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said, "it is right that we have a system which is fair but firm, accessible but controlled" and this sentiment was echoed by Gordon Brown: "The whole country wants a system of managed migration but needs to feel confident that people coming into our counrty have the skills to offer".
Even though critics have said that immigration stretches public services, the government has argued that it contributes an estimated 6 billion pounds a year to the UK economy. Initially, the new system will first apply to skilled immigrants who want to extend their stay and are already working in Britain. Within a year's time, it'll cover everyone else as well.
The top tier will be for highly skilled migrants, such as doctors and financial experts. They'll be able to come to Britain even without a job offer. Their earning potential and skills will be taken into account, although much will depend on the country in which the applicants live. Temporary employees, such as au pairs and young people on working holidays will fall into the bottom tier. They'll be allowed to stay in Britain, but only for a limited period of time. The three tiers in between will be reserved for skilled and low-skilled workers, as well as students. Tier two will focus on filling gaps in the labour market. An independent committee will advise ministers on which skills the economy needs.
Return to our UK Visa News page.
Living in the UK
CK and Jones offers advice and services for people who want to live in the UK
Working in the UK
CK and Jones offers advice and services for people who want to work in the UK
Studying in the UK
CK and Jones offers advice and services for people who want to study in the UK
Life in the UK
CK and Jones has fantastic resources for the life in the UK test
Please note CK and Jones is not currently providing any immigration advice until we become regulated by the OISC. Please browse our visa information sections in the meantime and use the contact us page to leave us a message.
