The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) is a points based system and was launched in January, 2002. Since than there has been no. of changes in the program and as per latest criterion, you need 75 points to qualify.

The Highly Skilled Migrant Program (HSMP) scheme means you can come to the UK to look for work - or establish a business - instead of needing an employer to sponsor you first.

HSMP is a points based system where points are awarded for the following:

• Qualifications: Points are awarded for Bachelors, Masters and PhD degree. Higher your qualification, the more points you are awarded.

• Earnings: points awarded are based on the country where the money was earned. For example points awarded for GBP (Great Britain Pound) 20000 per annum in UK or India are different.

• Age: younger applicants qualify for more points. No points are awarded for age over 32 years.

• UK experience: either work or study

• MBA graduates: MBA graduates from selected educational institutions qualify automatically.

However, you do not need to score in all the above areas to qualify. To prove that you qualify under the present criteria you will be required to provide extensive and detailed documentation in support of your application. Considerable no. of applications fail because the applicant has not provided sufficient documentary evidence to support of their application.

Under the HSMP, applicants will initially be granted for up to 24 months' stay in the UK. Then towards the end of the two year period applicants can apply to remain in the same capacity for a further period of up to three years. After five years as a highly skilled migrant, applicants can apply for permanent residence (properly known as “settlement” or “indefinite leave to remain”). Please note that periods spent in other categories that lead to permanent residence will count towards the five years.

Contact us for free Highly Skilled Migrant Programme assessment, click here