How does the UK’s points-based immigration system work?

In this blog, we will explore how the UK’s points-based immigration system (PBS) works and how it affects potential applicants.

What is the points-based system?

The UK uses a PBS to ensure individuals have the skills and qualifications needed to contribute to the UK’s economy. Applicants must reach a specific number of points to qualify for a visa. Points are allocated based on specific criteria, including job offer, qualifications, salary, and English language proficiency.

What visas does it apply to?

The PBS can broadly be divided into two types of visas, i.e. those which are more personal to the applicant (such as an Innovator, Global Talent and Graduate visas), and those which are sponsored by an employer (such as a Skilled Worker and Global Business Mobility visas).

How do you get points?

Each visa category has its own set of requirements that need to be met in order to obtain the relevant number of points.

For example, the Innovator visa requires, amongst other things, a business plan and for the business idea to be innovative, viable and scaleable. The Skilled Worker visa requires sponsorship from a UK employer, a minimum salary and skill level, etc.

Most PBS visas operate on a ‘tick box’ basis, which means if you tick the box – you are awarded the points, if you do not tick the box – you are not awarded any points. Some categories, like the Skilled Worker visa, allow the applicant to ‘trade’ points between categories, so if your salary is low but you have a PhD, you can make up the shortfall in points on the salary with your level of education.

Impact on potential applicants?

The UK visa system is not a easy to navigate, and the first thing any applicant needs to do is establish which visa is the most beneficial one for their particular circumstances and future goals. If it is the case that a PBS visa is the most suitable one, it is important for an applicant to understand how points are awarded and for what. Only if the applicant can satisfy all of the requirements will a visa application be successful.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

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