Introduction of the new Tier 1 (Exceptional talent) category of the points-based system coming soon. For details of the requirements please contact us today.
The current Tier 1 Post-Study Work route will be closed from April 2012 however the UKBA aim to ensure that genuine student entrepreneurs with a great idea are able to stay on in the UK to develop their business proposition. If graduating from a UK university with a recognised degree, PGCE, or PGDE will be able to switch into Tier 2 and there will not be a limit on these switchers. The normal Tier 2 requirements will apply, except for the Resident Labour Market Test.
Spouses/Partner: Be aware of New English Language Requirement
The UK Border Agency from 29th November 2010 have introduced a new English language requirement for partners applying for entry clearanceleave to enter, leave to remain and further leave to remain. You will meet the English language requirement automatically if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country or have obtain a degree in English, otherwise
You are required to demonstrate a basic command of English (speaking and listening) at level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference to understand and use simple, everyday expressions and very basic phrases.
Exemptions
You will not need to meet the English language requirement if you provide satisfactory evidence that:
§ you are aged 65 or over at the time when you make your application; or
§ you have a physical or mental condition which would prevent you from meeting the requirement; or
§ there are exceptional compassionate circumstances which would prevent you from meeting the requirement.
Tier 1 (General) categories closed for application from abroad
From, 23rd December 2010, to ensure the caps set by the UK governments for application between 19th July 2010 and April 2011 are not exceeded, the UKBA have stopped accepting Tier 1(General) application abroad. Application submitted prior to 23rd December 2010 it will be processed normally.
For applicant that are already in the UK and wish to apply as a Tier 1 (General) migrant this category will until 5 April 2011. There will be transitional arrangements for some in-country applicants beyond 6 April 2011, and the UKBA will announce such arrangements in due course.
Applying for Settlement from April 2011
Those applying for settlement form April 2011 will be required to be clear of unspent convictions. Those applicants applying for settlement as skilled and highly skilled migrants will be required to meet the salary criteria that applied when they extended their permission to stay and pass the ‘Life in the UK’ test prior to gaining settlement
Naturalisation as a British Citizen – New Form AN
The application form AN used to apply fornaturalisation as a British citizen has been revised. (September 2010) as well as the guidance notes being split in two documents:
§ Guide AN - how to complete the form; and
§ Booklet AN - details about the requirements for naturalisation and the way decision makers exercise their discretion.
