Investing and Working in the UK
If you are hoping to invest, set up in business or work in the UK, you will need to familiarise yourself with the Points Based System. The immigration lawyers at Latitude Law have expert knowledge of the UK points based immigration system, and will be happy to provide legal advice and guidance over the phone on 0161 234 6800, via our online chat service or e-mail
Understanding the UK Points Based Immigration System
The UK Government’s Points Based System (PBS) for managed migration is split into five tiers; those for workers cover entrepreneurs and investors, highly skilled and temporary workers. In order to qualify for entry to the UK under the Points Based System:
- Investors are required to make a minimum £1 million investment in regulated UK financial institutions (£2 million if you are taking loans in order to invest). You do not need to be actively involved in UK business, but you must maintain your home in the UK if you wish to qualify for settlement in the future. If you invest higher sums, you may qualify for accelerated settlement.
- Entrepreneurs wishing to become involved in a new or existing UK business must demonstrate that they can invest at least £200,000 in that business, and that at least 2 full time jobs will be created as a result of their involvement. If you can invest more, or you create more jobs when you are here, you may qualify for accelerated settlement in the UK.
- The Tier 1 General category is a provision for highly skilled and qualified workers; it was closed to overseas applicants in December 2010, and from 6 April 2011 to UK-based applicants. These rules are only relevant if you are already here in the Tier 1 General category.
- Under Tier 2 of the PBS, skilled workers with a job offer may apply for leave to enter or remain on the basis of an offer or employment with a licensed, sponsoring employer. Latitude’s Points Based System solicitors regularly advise employers and workers about these complex requirements.
The immigration lawyers at Latitude Law will be happy to discuss the details of the Points Based System and their implications for you at an informal initial consultation. We can meet employers at their place of business to discuss applying for a licence to sponsor overseas workers.
Further details of the PBS and what it could mean for you can be found at http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/visas-immigration/working/
Contact Latitude Law
If you’re interested in working in the UK, whether you are applying from this country or from abroad, contact the Manchester-based immigration lawyers at Latitude Law for expert legal advice on the points based immigration system. Call 0161 234 6800 or complete our enquiry form and arrange for your initial consultation today.