This section will contain information regarding the types work categories available without the need of an employer to sponsor you. Some of the categories lead to settlement, whilst other’s can count towards settlement.

If you are currently in the United Kingdom on the old category and your leave is soon to expire, then you would need to apply under the relevant category that you qualify.

The highly skilled workers scheme, renamed as being Tier 1 General, is designed to allow skilled people to come or remain in the United Kingdom to work or do self employment. There is no requirement of you to have an employer. The points are awarded for age, qualifications, your last 12 months earnings, your UK experience, English language and maintenance funds.

The rule is very restricted and only allows certain people to switch from in country. The Home Office has stated that the following people can enter this category and they are as follows:

1.      already in the United Kingdom with permission to stay (known as 'leave to remain') in an immigration category that allows you to switch into the highly skilled worker category;

2.      already in the United Kingdom as a highly skilled worker and you want to extend your permission to stay within your existing category; 

3.      already in the United Kingdom under the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP), you want to extend your permission to stay and you are eligible to switch into the highly skilled worker category; or

4.      outside the United Kingdom and you are eligible to apply for permission to enter (known as 'entry clearance') under the highly skilled worker category.

If you are applying in country, the correct application form must be completed and must be submitted provided on the application form. If you are applying from outside the United Kingdom, please contact your nearest entry clearance post (British Embassy).