Tier 2 of the Points Based System for the UK replaces the old Work Permit system. Tier 2 Visas are meant for medium and highly skilled applicants wanting to move to the UK and require applicants to have an offer of employment from a UK based employer.

All non-EEA nationals moving to the UK must have a sponsor and must also have a Certificate of Sponsorship if they want to apply for a Tier 2 work permit.

As with the previous UK Work Permit Scheme it is the company that makes the application on behalf of the applicant. Like all of the tiers of the new points based system applicants will be assessed with a points test, the
points required under this system are 50 points.

Under the Points Based System there is more importance placed on the responsibility of the Sponsor/Employer in ensuring that applicants are eligible and have sufficient skills and experience for the position offered and as a UK based employer, they may be subject to immigration compliance checks with or without notice.

Shortage occupation positions do not have to be advertised in the UK before a sponsor can employ the non foreign national. When position is not on the shortage occupation list employers must show that they have advertised and tried to fill the position within the UK.
Qualifying Criteria

Applicants will be assessed according to the following points:

Sponsorship

Job in Shortage Occupation = 50 points
Job offer that passes the resident labour market test = 30 points
Switching from Post Study Visa = 30 points
Intra Company transfer = 25 points
Extension on the same job and the same salary = 50 points

Qualifications

PHD or Masters Degree = 15 points
Bachelor’s Degree =10 points
A Level or S/NVQ 3 or equivalent or above = 5 points

Prospective Earnings

£32,000 or more = 25 points
£28,000 – £31,999.99 = 20 points
£24,000 – £27,999.99 = 15 points
£20,000 – £23,999.99 = 10 points
Under £20,000             0 Points