Points Based System – Overview
Points Based System – Overview
In 2009 a new immigration system was introduced that was intended to make the current system in place more consistent and straightforward.
The work permit arrangements, and the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme, were replaced by Tier 2 and Tier 1 of the Points Based System.
By using a points based system it meant that a more accurate decision making process was in place.
The PBS is going to replace more than 80 existing routes into the UK for the purposes of work and study. The Points Based System is split up into the following 5 tiers, or levels:
Tier 1 visas are aimed at highly skilled individuals who will contribute to the growth and productivity of the UK economy. Applicants under this category do not require a job offer or sponsorship from a UK organisation.
Tier 2 of the points based system is aimed at skilled workers with a job offer, required to fill gaps in the UK labour force. Applications made under this Tier will require sponsorship from the employing organisation.
Tier 3 of the points based system is aimed at low skilled workers in order to fill specific temporary labour shortages. Applications under this tier will also need to be sponsored by employers.
Tier 4 is aimed at students. Applications made under this tier will need to be supported by the educational institution.
Tier 5 is designed for Youth mobility and temporary workers: people coming to the UK to satisfy primarily non-economic objectives.
Most applicants seeking entry to the UK under Points Based System will require a Certificate of Sponsorship. This will need to have been issued to them by their potential employer, or educational institution in the UK. Applicants under Tier 1, however, do not require a Certificate of Sponsorship, as they are able to apply based purely on their own attributes and achievements.
Before being able to issue Certificates of Sponsorship, employers and educational institutions will need to obtain and maintain a place on the national Sponsor’s Register. This will involve making a fairly involved application, supported by business-related documents, and agreeing to what is effectively a code of practice, including a number of responsibilities and obligations such as reporting, record keeping and compliance-related activities. There will also be specific additional duties associated with each tier under which the organisation wishes to sponsor migrants. In order to maintain their position on the register, they will need to comply with all of these responsibilities.
