The British government's new point-based system for those wishing to come to the UK for work or study, announced in February, begins its roll out in Pakistan on Monday. From June 30, the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme will be replaced by Tier 1 of the point-based system, under which highly skilled applicants from Pakistan will now apply for their UK visa.
Under the point-based system, applicants will need sufficient points to qualify and satisfy the visa service that they can make a positive contribution to the UK. Points are awarded for objective criterion such as qualifications, previous earnings, age and UK experience. Applicants can use the online points calculator at www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/pointscalculator to check whether they have enough points to qualify for their visa, before they submit their application.
Following the announcement of the scheme in February, Tier 1 was first introduced in India in April. The remaining tiers of the system, replacing the current visa categories for skilled workers with job offers in the UK, students, and temporary workers, will be phased in over the next 12 months. Further announcements will follow as the new tiers are introduced in Pakistan.