UK Working Visa
This post is designed to help anyone who consider applying for UK working visa, specifically the Point Based System, or so used to be called Highly Skilled Migrant Programme, Tier 1 General Migrant. While the purpose of this programme is to let anyone who is well off in his or her own country move in to boost Britain's highly skilled labor, despite the public belief of United Kingdom border agency being strict on migrant-wannabes, it seemed rather simple for some people when compared with other economic nations. I myself had applied for it in February 2010, and ended up being granted one within a week. Such a short processing time might have resulted from well-prepared documentation which complemented my application; therefore, I hope this post could offer a good example of how to succeed with a minimum efforts. Nevertheless, while this post is only to provide a brief list of what to do in comparison to a lengthy explanation the Border Agency provides, individual circumstances differ, so only refer to it as needed. Anyways, basically these are all the documents one needs to provide.
VAF9 application form
Appendix 1 self-assessment: this needs to be done online; therefore, one need not supply it on printed format.
Point calculator: this is also generated by using the online form. Print it out and include it as a supplement.
Application fee: Supposedly ₤675, but varies depending on from what country one is applying.
Current and previous passports
Supplementary proof for points gained (minimum 95 pts.)
Maintenance funds (10 pts.): A certificate of balance from the bank or a bank statement, either would be fine, as long as it shows that a balance above ₤2800 had been kept for over 3 months, with an ending date within a month. In certain countries, Korea for example, banks tend to issue a bankbook as an authentic record. If there is one, it is also recommended that a bank to be included.
English language proficiency (10 pts.): For a person who received a post-secondary education in English-speaking country, this would be a simple thing. Just request a graduate certificate from your school. Even better if it was a graduate degree because it can also be used to obtain points for education. Otherwise, provide an IELTS examination record.
Age (max. 20 pts.): No proof will be needed for this as passports should be submitted
Qualifications (max. 75 pts.): Again, a certificate of award is the only thing one needs if graduated from an acknowledged institution. Upon completing the points calculator, one will find out whether one's school is within the database. If the particular school is not found, one will have to consult through UK NARIC for a more complicated process. This is only if you have higher degree beyond Bachelor's, so if you only have undergraduate degree, you do not have to provide anything. I read from somewhere that CFA charter could be considered as a Master's degree. So for those in applicable situation, do some search on this forum in order to claim your 35 pts.
Previous earnings (max. 45 pts.): This is somewhat the hardest part of the preparation process because a set of matching documents should be provided. For my own record, I would recommend obtaining documents from the employer and the bank, respectably.
Lastly, include photocopies of every single documents submitted. If there is any document printed in a language other than English, provide a certified translation along with an original.
That is all! Of course, it is not simple as it sounds. It takes both time and money; however, remember it is always difficult earning a living abroad. If you think about it in a long term, this eligibility will be a huge asset compared to efforts invested.
