UK to offer point based work opportunities for international graduates
From 30 June, international graduates who have studied in the UK will be free to seek employment for up to two years under Tier 1 of the Points Based System (PBS). This is twice the length of stay permitted under the old International Graduate Scheme (IGS) rules and allows the most able international graduates to find work in the UK without the need for a sponsor or work permit. The government is committed to facilitating the entry of skilled migrants and encouraging inward investment, both of which will benefit the UK economy. With effect from 30 June, Tier 1 of the PBS is also being extended to include Entrepreneurs and Investors.
Tier 1 (post-study work) replaces IGS and the Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme. It provides a bridge from study in the UK to highly skilled or skilled work. The UK is a popular destination for students from India. They represent the second largest number of international students in higher education in the UK. The number of visas issued to Indian students is increasing year on year. In 2007 almost 22,000 student visas were issued across India, representing a 10 % increase on 2006. PBS tier 4 for students will be launched in early 2009.
PBS is the new system for managing migration for those wishing to enter the UK for work and study. Under PBS, applicants need sufficient points to qualify for a visa. Points are awarded for objective criteria such as qualifications, previous earnings, age and UK experience. The new system is easier for applicants to use. It allows those wanting to work in the UK to calculate, before they make their application, whether their points add up to entry under Tier 1. It is also a quicker and more straightforward process. What was a two-stage application process for highly skilled migrants now has only one stage.
Tier 1 is the first of the five tiers to be rolled out over the next 12 months. Tier 1 (General) for highly skilled migrants was first launched in India on 1 April 2008 and approximately 250 applications have been received to date. Tier 1 is being rolled out worldwide on 30 June.
Tier 2, targeting skilled workers with a job offer and Tier 5, for temporary workers will both be launched in the third quarter of 2008. Tier 4, for students, will follow in early 2009. Tier 3, which covers low skilled migration routes, will only be used if shortages are identified that cannot be filled from the UK or European labour force.
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