The United Kingdom's points-based Tier Visa system is the main route for assessing migrants applicants coming from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) to the UK to work, study, invest or train.

There are five "Tiers" for different categories of applicants. To qualify under any of the Tiers, you must pass a points-based assessment, which are generally awarded according to the ability, and age.

The Five Tier Visa System

• Tier 1 Visa: This visa category is for "high-value migrants" from outside the EEA and covers entry of entrepreneurs, investors, and those very few people who come under the "exceptional talent" visa.
  
• Tier 2 Visa: This category is for "skilled workers" from outside the EEA with a job offer in the UK. It includes skilled workers who are transferred to the UK by an international company, skilled workers where there is a proven shortage in the UK, ministers of religion and sports people.
  
• Tier 3 Visa: This category is currently suspended. It was originally used for low-skilled workers during temporary labour shortages.
  
Tier 4 Visa: This category is for students aged over 16 from outside the EEA who wish to study in the UK. Amongst other requirements, applicants must have admission at a registered UK education establishment before they can apply.

• Tier 5 Visa: This category contains six sub-Tiers for temporary workers such as Charity, Creative and Sporting, Government Authorised Exchange, International Agreement, Religious and Youth Mobility Scheme workers.

The requirements for eligibility under each Tier are subject to change. Keeping abreast of the changes is a full time occupation, that is why engaging the service of a professional firm like ours is important.