Visa information for the UK

Getting the right visa type is crucial and UK employers definitely have a preference for those with full working rights. We recommend you get the best visa you can before you leave.

If you need to prove that you are actively seeking employment in the UK to obtain a visa, talk to us! We provide the professionals we assist with a letter of support that can also speed up the visa application process.

Below we have listed the visa's available in order of UK employer (and UK agency) preferences:

Full working rights

If you are lucky enough to have a British passport, the right to work through Ancestry, Right of Abode or a Spousal visa, you have the same working rights as a British person. EU passports also provide this (though some EU countries are more restrictive than others).

Tier 1 visa (Highly skilled workers)

The Tier 1 visa has been phased in to replace the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP). This visa is a points-based visa where, if you meet the criteria, you can immigrate to the UK. The visa allows you to work for three years in any profession. It can be extended thereafter, providing you are still in employment. You score points based on your age, income, qualifications, English language ability and having sufficient funds to support yourself.

Unlike the HSMP, this visa can now be applied for in New Zealand and Australia through your closest British High Commission.

Why is the Tier 1 visa most beneficial if I don't have full working rights?

IMPORTANT: The rules are changing and from 1 April 2009 it is going to be harder to get a Tier 1!  View the changes to the Tier 1 visa here.

Tier 5 visa (Youth mobilty scheme)

A popular option for New Zealanders and Australians under 31. The Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme) visa has been phased in to replace the Working Holiday visa (WHV). The new visa will still be for two years, however you will be able to work for all of the two year period. This is great news for you and gives you access to many of the best jobs available in the UK.

If you have been issued with a WHV, but wish to apply under the Youth Mobility Scheme, you may do so, provided you have not already activated your current visa by entering the UK. You should be aware hat there will be no refunds for the original visa.

Note: Recent immigration rule changes do not allow you to switch from a Tier 5 to the Tier 1 visa while in the UK. So this visa has a big down side if you decide you want to stay in the UK longer as you will have to return to your home country to apply.

Find out more about the new Tier 5 visa here.

See why you should consider the Tier 1 visa.

Tier 2 visa (Sponsored skilled workers)

People are sponsored to work in the UK all the time, but it is not something that is guaranteed and it is exceptionally rare without being in the UK.

Find out more about the new Tier 2 visa here.

Register with us now and take the next step in your career.