UK Points-Based Immigration System (PBS)

The UK Points-Based Immigration System (PBS) is the primary mechanism through which non-UK nationals can apply to work, study, or invest in the UK. The system assesses applicants based on specific criteria and assigns points for each criterion. To be eligible for a visa under the PBS, applicants must meet a minimum points threshold, typically 70 points.

Categories under the Points-Based System

The PBS is divided into several tiers or categories, each designed for different types of applicants:

• Skilled Worker Visa: For individuals with a job offer in the UK from an approved employer at a required skill level.
• Global Talent Visa: For individuals who are recognized as leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, and digital technology.
• Innovator and Start-Up Visas: For entrepreneurs wanting to establish a business in the UK.
• Student Visa: For international students wishing to study at UK educational institutions.
• Graduate Visa: For international students who have completed a degree in the UK and want to stay and work.
• Health and Care Worker Visa: For qualified doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals with a job offer in an eligible health or care role.
• High Potential Individual Visa: For graduates from top global universities who wish to work or look for work in the UK.
• Intra-Company Transfer Visa: For employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to the UK branch of the organization.

Key Criteria for Points Allocation

1. Job Offer:

   • 20 points for having a valid job offer from a Home Office-approved sponsor.

2. Job at an Appropriate Skill Level:

   • 20 points for jobs that are at RQF Level 3 (equivalent to A-levels) or above.

3. Salary:

   • 20 points for a salary of £26,200 or above.
   • 10 points for a salary between £23,580 and £26,199.
   • 0 points for a salary between £20,960 and £23,579.

4. English Language Proficiency:

   • 10 points for meeting the minimum English language requirement (B1 level or above on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).

5. Shortage Occupation:

   • 20 points if the job is on the UK’s shortage occupation list.

6. Educational Qualifications:

   • 10 points for a PhD in a subject relevant to the job.
   • 20 points for a PhD in a STEM subject relevant to the job.

Summary table for the UK Points-Based Immigration System (PBS):

Total Points Required: 70

• Mandatory Points: 50 (Job Offer + Skill Level + English Language)
• Tradeable Points: 20 (Salary + Shortage Occupation + Qualifications)

Applicants must score a total of 70 points to qualify for most UK visas under the PBS.

Eligibility Requirements

• Approved Sponsor: Applicants must have a job offer from an employer approved by the UK Home Office.
• Skill Level: The job must be at or above RQF Level 3.
• Salary Threshold: The job must meet the minimum salary requirements unless the applicant can trade points.
• English Language: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English, typically by passing an approved English language test or holding a degree taught in English.

Application Process

1. Sponsorship: Ensure that you have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved UK employer.
2. Points Calculation: Ensure you meet the required points threshold (usually 70 points).
3. Documents Required:
   • Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
   • Proof of English language proficiency
   • Evidence of qualifications and relevant work experience
   • Proof of salary
   • Valid passport or travel document
4. Application Submission: Apply online through the UK government’s visa portal.
5. Biometrics: Provide fingerprints and a photo (biometrics) at a visa application center.
6. Health Surcharge: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of the application.
7. Processing Time: Visa processing typically takes 3-8 weeks, depending on the visa type and applicant’s location.
8. Decision: The UK Home Office will notify you of the decision.

Costs

Here’s a summary table of costs associated with the UK Points-Based Immigration System (PBS):

Note:

• Application Fees can vary based on the visa type, length, and whether the applicant is applying from inside or outside the UK.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is an annual charge for accessing the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
• Priority Processing is an optional service that speeds up the decision-making process for an additional fee.

These costs are subject to change and should be verified through the official UK government website or visa application center.

Processing Times

• Standard Processing: Typically 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK.
• Priority Processing: Can reduce the time to 5 working days.
• Super Priority: Next working day decision, available at additional cost.

Visa Duration and Extensions

• Skilled Worker Visa: Initially granted for up to 5 years. It can be extended if eligibility is maintained.
• Global Talent Visa: Up to 5 years, with the possibility of settlement after 3-5 years, depending on the category.
• Graduate Visa: Up to 2 years (3 years for PhD graduates).
• Intra-Company Transfer Visa: Maximum of 5 years (or 9 years for high earners).

Settlement and Permanent Residency 

Certain visa categories under the PBS can lead to settlement (ILR) in the UK. ILR allows individuals to live and work in the UK without time restrictions. Applicants typically need to have lived in the UK for 5 years on an eligible visa, meet income and English language requirements, and pass the Life in the UK test.

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