Introduction to UK Immigration

Although the subject of immigration has become a topic of largely negative discussion, the UK still welcomes people who can make a positive contribution to its economy. However, to help combat concerns that there are too many migrants arriving that cannot make a positive contribution, the British immigration system is now significantly more robust than it once was. Therefore, anybody who wants to apply for a UK work permit or study visa now needs to qualify through a tier-based points system, of which there are five levels:

• Tier 1: Relates to highly skilled individuals who can contribute to economic productivity.

• Tier 2: Applies to skilled workers who have a job offer from an employer in any UK industry that is experiencing labour shortages.

• Tier 3: Is aimed at low-skilled workers who can help to fill specific short-term labour shortages.

• Tier 4: Is for students.

• Tier 5: covers people who are allowed to work in the UK for a limited period of time to meet non-economic objectives, e.g. youth mobility and temporary workers on volunteer programmes.

Satisfying legislative requirements
However, a successful application is not just down to the migrant. Any British employer or educational establishment will need to make an application to the Home Office to explain not only how the migrant they are looking to hire or accommodate will satisfy all of the necessary legislative requirements, but also to accept certain responsibilities for them while they are resident in the UK.

Immigration solicitors
Naturally, the rules and regulations that govern the issue of a UK work permit can be quite strict and sometimes even complicated. Immigration solicitors can help greatly in such circumstances as they can provide expert advice and essential services that immigrants can use to increase the chances of their visa application being successful.

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