HSMP - HIGHLY SKILLED MIGRANT PROGRAMME :                The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) is based on a points system and is designed to allow highly skilled people to migrate to the United Kingdom in order to work or be self-employed. Overseas individuals are given the freedom to undertake work in their chosen field and to change employers without the bureaucracy of informing the authorities at each juncture. It offers a far greater degree of flexibility and freedom that a regular UK Work Permit. The Highly Skilled Migrant Programme Visa is initially granted for twelve-months; an extension application can be made this period and the applicant must prove that they have been working and they remain economically active at some point through the first year. HSMP Qualifying Criteria. This is a points based assessment. There are two categories: Under 28 Years of age and Over 28 Years of age. Candidates need not score in all areas but must reach the required points tally for an HSMP visa to be issued. 1. Age Applicants 28 or under are given points on account of their age. This compensates them because they will have not had sufficient time to develop their careers to benefit from points in other qualifying criteria. 2. Education Points are awarded dependent upon the level of qualifications achieved. The minimum education level that gives points is that of an undergraduate degree. Medical General Practitioners and MBA holders from top ranking institutions receive a high number of points. 3. Work Experience Points are awarded dependent upon the applicant’s years of experience in their chosen field and whether they have additional experience in a senior or specialist role. 4. Past Earnings Points are awarded in this area for earnings made over the past 12 months. There is a weighted scale to allow for relative earnings levels in different countries across the world. 5. Achievement in chosen field Proof is required that the applicant has made significant or exceptional achievements in their chosen field. This could be demonstrated by public acknowledgement by their peers, official and independent recognition of their work or achievements, awards etc. 6. Spouse’s Achievements Points are awarded if the spouse of an applicant has achieved a graduate level education or has graduate level work experience. PLEASE NOTE: HSMP REQUIRES ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS TO CLAIM FOR POINTS