Tier 1 General:Transitional arrangements

This page explains transitional arrangement.
If you are part-way through the process of applying to the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP)/ MBA transitional /Self-employed transitional and wish to apply to Tier 1 (General) - highly skilled worker under the points-based system; or you were granted permission to stay as a highly skilled migrant on or before 8 November 2006, and want to extend your stay under the transitional arrangements.

Transitional arrangements for those with an HSMP approval letter:
If you have already got an HSMP approval letter, but have not applied for permission to enter or stay as a Highly Skilled Migrant, you will automatically score points for your attributes and for English language because you have an HSMP approval letter.

You must fill in all other appropriate sections of the relevant application form, including the maintenance (funds) section.

You will be charged a reduced fee for your application under the highly skilled worker category.
HSMP approval letters are valid for a period of six months from the date of issue.

Documents required under HSMP :

• you must send your valid HSMP approval letter.
• If it is initial application then need to send all the documents you have sent for HSMP application.
• Proof of maintance

See also supporting evidence section for more information

MBA provision transitional arrangements:
This section explains the Master in Business Administration MBA transitional arrangements in place for tier 1 (general) of the points-based system.

This provision is being removed under Tier 1 (General) of the points-based system, but the MBA transitional arrangements will continue for applicants who enrolled on an eligible MBA course before 30 June 2008, and submit their application within 12 months of completing a qualifying MBA. Applicants enrolling on an MBA course after this date will not be eligible to claim points under the MBA transitional arrangements, but may be able to claim points for the qualification under the attributes required for Tier 1 (General) migrants.

You can score 75 points under the MBA transitional arrangements. These points are available to initial applicants only .

To claim 75 points under this provision, you must have been awarded an eligible MBA at the time the MBA is on the list of eligible programmes.

You cannot apply for entry clearance or leave to remain on the basis of the MBA transitional arrangements until you have completed your MBA.

Documents required for MBA transitional arrangements.

• An original MBA certificate and
• a letter from the awarding institution confirming the date of enrolment on the MBA course

Note:- Please note that original provisional MBA certificates are not acceptable.

Alternative evidence: If you are unable to provide your original certificate

• An original academic reference and
• an original transcript

Self-employed transitional route:
If you are self-employed, were granted permission to stay as a highly skilled migrant before 8 November 2006 and want to extend your stay,

you must send the following documents:

• your HM Revenue & Customs registration documents confirming you are registered for tax;
• copies of contracts and invoices for your business, covering the last four months at least;
• copies of documents that show you have ongoing business commitments for the next six months;
• copies of documents that show your business projections for the next six months;draft business accounts for the business; and
• utility bills showing the name of the business; or
• VAT Return; or
• company registration certificate with Companies House; or
• copies of any registration documents (for example a local health authority registration); or
  lease of premises for business use; or
• insurance documents for the business.

HSMP approval letter (now closed)
A letter from UK border agency that confirms you have passed the first stage of the application process for the Hi hly Skilled Migrant Programme because you have the skills and experience required. HSMP approval letters are valid for six months from the date of issue.

Check out the related information on:
Tier 1 General: Eligibility
Point Based System
UK VISA : Complete procedure
UK VISA : Application fees
UK VISA : Application Forms
Sponsoring a Migrant