Study/Work in the UK

A new immigration system has been launched in the UK, the Points Based system, to ensure only those with the right skills or contribution will be able to come to the UK to work and study.  The system is split into five tiers:-

Tier 1: Highly skilled individuals to contribute to growth and productivity
Tier 2: Skilled workers to fill gaps in UK labour force
Tier 3: Low skilled workers to fill labour shortages
Tier 4: Students
Tier 5: Youth mobility and temporary workers

There are different sub-tiers within the tiers above.  The tiers themselves have different conditions and entitlements.  Some of the tiers can lead to settlement whilst others cannot.  Some allow dependents, whilst others do not.  Some allow switching between tiers, whilst others do not.

For each individual tier you will need to score enough points for your application to succeed.  The system is far from clear to understand.  We at Branton Bridge are well equipped to guide you through the Rules and assist you through the application process.

We are able to provisionally assess your application for free on the telephone.

Sponsorship

At present, Applicants in Tiers 2, 4 and 5 must give a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed sponsor when applying to come to the UK or for an extension of stay.

We can assist sponsors in the licensing process.  In the absence of this employers and academic institutions will not be able to benefit from non-EEA migrants relying on Tiers 2, 4 and 5 above.

There are specific obligations and duties imposed on sponsors which if not complied with will expose those sponsors to civil and criminal penalties.