The Points Based System

The Points Based System has been implemented via successive statements of changes in the Immigration Rules.  These began with the implementation of the Tier 1 (General) subcategory in February of 2008, which replaced the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) and was effectively completed by the implementation of Tier 4 - for Students - in March of 2009.

Tier 2, which completely replaced the long standing work permit regime was implemented in the autumn of 2008.   Since November of 2008 it has not been possible to apply for a work permit.

The Points Based System is a wholesale change to the UK's Immigration regime.  Many immigration categories which predated the Points Based System have now been deleted, and there are transitional provisions whereby people with leave to remain in those categories can apply for further leave to remain under a comparable sub category of the Points Based System.

The Points Based System has 5 Tiers, although Tier 3 (which was intended to provide for specific low skilled workers) is suspended indefinitely.