Points-based system: arrangements for migrants already in the United Kingdom
11 April 2008
We are in the process of introducing the points-based system for coming to the United Kingdom to work, train or study. As we do so, we will delete many of our existing immigration categories. These changes will impact on migrants who currently have permission to stay in the United Kingdom in categories that are being deleted.
Should your category be deleted, as long as you continue to comply with the terms of your permission to stay in the United Kingdom, you will be able to complete the period for which you have been granted permission to stay (known as leave to remain) in that category.
Wherever possible, we will introduce arrangements to minimise the impact of the transition to the points-based system. These arrangements may differ from category to category.
Tier 1 of the points-based system was introduced in the UK on 29 February 2008 and extended to India on 1 April 2008. Roll-out will extend globally this summer. At that point (which will not be before 30 June 2008) we will be deleting the following categories:
- writers, composers and artists;
- self-employed lawyers;
- innovators;
- the International Graduates Scheme; and
- the Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme.
Temporary transitional arrangements are being put in place for migrants who will be affected by these changes.
We will publish arrangements for other immigration categories as we introduce more categories of the points-based system.