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Tier 1 – High Value Migrants

Tier 1 is for high-value migrants, and currently contains the following sub-categories:   

  • Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) visa
  • Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa
  • Tier 1 (General) visa
  • Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa
  • Tier 1 (Investor) visa

The main sub-category that applies to the University is detailed below -

Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent)

Tier 1 (Exceptional talent) is for migrants who are internationally recognised as world leaders or potential world-leading talent in the fields of science and the arts, and who wish to work in the UK. There is a limit of 1,000 places in this visa category per year.  A requirement of this category is that the migrant must be endorsed by one of the 'competent bodies', which will advise the UKVI on these 'exceptionally talented' migrants to ensure that they are the brightest and best within their field.

There is a 2 stage process to get a Tier 1 Exceptional Talent visa, first anapplication to UKVI for endorsement as a leader or an emerging leader within a particular field.  Then once endorsement has been grant, a visa application must be submitted.

Closed sub-categories

Tier 1 (General) and Tier 1 (Post Study Work) are both closed to new applicants although current visas remain valid until their expiry.  Upon their expiry the migrant is expected to move into a different visa category or leave the UK.

Applications made under Tier 1 must be made directly by the migrants themselves, although Human Resources can provide advice where necessary.  Migrants holding a valid Tier 1 visa are free to work at the University without the need of sponsorship.

Full details can be found on the UKVI website - https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas.