Visas/Tier System
The United Kingdom’s points-based 5 tier visa system is the main immigration route for migrants from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) to work, study, invest or train in the UK.
In order to be eligible for a visa in any of the five tiers, you need to pass a points-based assessment which groups you into one of the 5 tiers. In work visa applications, points are generally awarded based on ability, experience and age. You must reach a minimum threshold in order to apply successfully, though this minimum score varies by tier.
UK Immigration Five Tier Visa System
- Tier 1 Visa: This category is for ‘high-value migrants’ from outside the EEA and includes entrepreneurs, investors, and the few who come under the ‘exceptional talent’ visa.
- Tier 2 Visa This category is for ‘skilled workers’ from outside the EEA with a job offer in the UK. It includes skilled workers who are transferred to the UK, skilled workers where there is a proven shortage in the UK, ministers of religion and sportspeople.
- Tier 3 Visa : This category was designed for low-skilled workers filling specific temporary labour shortages. Unfortunately, the Government has not allocated any Tier 3 visas yet, and you cannot apply for this scheme.
- Tier 4 Visa: This category is for students from outside the EEA who wish to study in the UK and are over 16. Applicants must have a place at a registered UK educational establishment before they can apply.
- Tier 5 Visa : This category contains six sub-tiers of temporary worker including creative and sporting, charity, religious workers, and the youth mobility scheme which enables about 55,000 young people every year to work in the UK on working holidays. The visas are awarded to young people from countries that have reciprocal arrangements with the UK.
Other UK visas
The five-tier system covers most work, study, and investment visas. But visitor visas, family visas, and some UK business visas fall outside of the five tiers. Please see the linked Work Permit pages for more information on these classifications.
- UK Visitor Visas: This section has the information you need to enter the UK as a visitor, whether for business or pleasure
- UK Family Visas: Whether you want to bring your family to the UK or join a family member already living there, see this section for the main UK visa options for families.
- UK Business Visas: This section covers a limited number of long-term business visas which fall outside of the five-tier system.
If you want expert advice and assistance in making your visa application, please contact us by calling 01706 711 176 to speak to one of our immigration specialists.