Immigration to the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom offers a large selection of Immigration Visas, Residency and work permits, some of which lead ultimately to Permanent residency (Indefinite leave to remain), a British Citizenship and a UK Passport. Highly Skilled Migrant Program (HSMP) One of the most popular ways of settling in the UK is through the Highly Skilled Migrant Program, quite a new program which was designed to compete with similar programs in other countries. This program, which is based on a points system, enables the Visa holder to enter the UK without a job offer or sponsorship, and effectively work for any employer in the UK. Work Permit Visa If you have a job offer from a UK based employer, you should apply for a sponsored work permit. You should bear in mind that this work permit will be valid only for 5 years for this specific employer only. Living in the UK on such a visa is counted towards the requirements for permanent residency. Working Holiday Visa If you are under 30, and a citizen of a Commonwealth (former British Empire) country you are probably eligible for a Working Holiday Visa. Such Visa enables you to legally work in the UK for 2 years. Permanent Residency & Citizenship Once you obtained a HSMP Visa or a Work Permit Visa, you are eligible to have your spouse and children live in the UK with you. After several years of legal residency, you would be able to apply for a UK Citizenship and Passport.