Section A: Points Based Immigration
The United Kingdom’s Points Based Immigration System (PBS) sets the framework for those looking to apply for a UK work, study or business visa.
At its core, the PBS assigns applicants points for various attributes and qualifications, such as professional skills, educational background, salary levels and English language proficiency. The total points an applicant accrues determines their eligibility for different types of visas.
Points based immigration is used to prioritise workers and students who meet economic needs while placing legal duties on sponsors. It allows the UK government to regulate immigration flows in a structured manner, prioritising individuals whose skills and talents are deemed most beneficial to the country’s economy and society.
Time spent under PBS visas can in some cases lead to settlement, but settlement is not itself a PBS route.
1. Background to UK Points Based Immigration
The UK government first introduced a points-based immigration system in 2008 to reform the previous, more opaque immigration system.
Prior to the PBS, the UK’s immigration rules were criticised for being overly complex and difficult to interpret, both for applicants and the authorities managing immigration. The pre-PBS system was also seen as insufficiently flexible to respond to the rapidly changing needs of the UK’s economy and labour market.
Implementing the five-tier immigration system marked a strategic shift towards a more transparent, objective, and efficient approach to immigration. It was designed to simplify the UK’s immigration process by establishing a coherent, points-based framework that made the process clearer and more accessible for both applicants and employers. It was also intended to enable adjustments and amendments to immigration criteria to align with the UK’s economic needs and policy. The structured nature of the PBS was also intended to enhance security and compliance, affording immigration authorities powers of enforcement and to verify the information provided by applicants.
2. Post-Brexit Points Based System
Over time, the PBS evolved in response to political, economic, and social developments, most recently after Brexit. The current Points Based System was subject to significant reform from 1 January 2021 following the UK’s departure from the EU. New routes replaced the previous five-tier immigration system, designed to cater for different types of workers and employment.
With the end of EU freedom of movement, EU and EEA nationals (except Irish citizens) became subject to the PBS in the same way as other non-UK nationals.
3. Points-Based Immigration Work Visas
Workers coming to the UK under the following routes will be assessed under the Points Based System:
a. Skilled Worker Visa
b. Health and Care Worker Visa
c. Global Business Mobility Visas
d. Innovator Founder Visa
e. Graduate Visa (post-study route within the PBS, not based on tradable points)
f. Creative Worker Visa
g. International Sportsperson Visa
h. Seasonal Worker Visa
i. Youth Mobility Scheme (does not function on a points-allocation basis)
j. Scale Up Visa
k. International Agreement Visa
l. Global Talent Visa
This list is subject to change as the UK Government amends the available work routes and their underlying criteria, including updates to the Immigration Salary List and Temporary Shortage List.
In addition to work visas, the UK’s Student visa is also operated under the PBS.
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Points-based immigration should offer transparent, predictable processing of visa applications. Applicants and decision-makers are working to the same rules and guidance with clear criteria on how and when points are awarded. Fall short of these standards in even one area, and the application as a whole will fail.
However, in practice, shifting thresholds and complex evidential requirements undermine the potential for certainty. The impact for applicants is that evidence has to be comprehensive and robust to prove conclusively that the relevant criteria are met for points to be secured.
Section B: How Does Points Based Immigration Work?
The Points Based System (PBS) in the UK evaluates potential immigrants based on a structured set of criteria designed to assess their ability to contribute to the UK economy and integrate into society.
The system allocates points for various attributes and qualifications, focusing primarily on skill level, salary thresholds, and language proficiency, among others.
Points Comparison by Route
| Criteria | Skilled Worker | Health & Care Worker | Global Talent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decision basis | 70 points (50 mandatory + 20 tradeable) | 70 points (same structure as Skilled Worker) | Endorsement or eligible prize (no points total) |
| Mandatory elements | Offer from licensed sponsor (20); job at RQF 3+ (20); English B1+ (10) | Offer from eligible NHS/NHS supplier/adult social care employer (20); job at RQF 3+ (20); English B1+ (10) | Endorsement by approved body or Global Talent prize; no job offer required |
| Tradeable elements | Salary meeting threshold/going rate (20), with limited alternatives such as ISL roles, new entrant, or relevant PhD (STEM) where applicable | Reduced salary thresholds for eligible occupations; ISL rules may apply; new entrant where applicable | Not applicable (decision rests on endorsement/prize and route criteria) |
| Typical salary floor | £41,700 general threshold or 100% of going rate, whichever is higher | Reduced thresholds for many roles, commonly £23,040 or £20,960 depending on role/ISL | No salary requirement |
| Job offer required? | Yes, from a licensed sponsor | Yes, from eligible health or social care employer | No |
| IHS/fees | IHS payable at standard rates | IHS exempt; reduced visa fees | IHS payable (no exemption) |
| Path to ILR | Usually eligible after 5 years (route-dependent criteria apply) | Usually eligible after 5 years | Often eligible after 3 years (endorsement category dependent) |
1. Criteria Used to Assess Applicants
a. Skill Level
Applicants are assessed based on the skill level of the job they are applying for. The UK government maintains a list of eligible occupations, categorised by skill levels that align with the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).
The Skilled Worker visa requires a job offer in an occupation classified as RQF Level 3 or above (equivalent to A-levels). Transitional provisions may apply to roles on the Immigration Salary List.
You can read our extensive guide to the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) here >>
b. Salary Thresholds
The salary offered for the position plays a crucial role in the assessment. The system sets minimum salary thresholds that vary by job type, reflecting the market rate for skilled professions. As of 22 July 2025, the general threshold is £41,700 per year or 100% of the occupation’s going rate, unless a reduced rate applies for roles on the Immigration Salary List, health and care roles, or new entrants.
Higher salaries can also earn additional points, incentivising the migration of highly compensated professionals.
You can read our extensive guide to the Skilled Worker Visa Minimum Salary here >>
c. Language Proficiency
Proficiency in the English language is essential for integration into the UK and is, therefore, a significant factor in the points assessment.
Most applicants will need to pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) at a required level to evidence their proficiency by achieving a level B1 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or an equivalent test.
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Applicants think points give flexibility but points are in most cases non-negotiable. The scope to trade in reality is minimal, and can compound the confusion among applicants. But the risk remains – a wrongly applied concession almost always means refusal.
Section C: Applying under the Points Based System
Applying for a visa under the UK’s Points Based System involves several steps. The specific application process will depend on the visa category you are applying for, but in general, the stages are as follows:
1. Step-by-Step Guide on the Application Process
Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type
Identify the correct visa category that suits your circumstances, such as Skilled Worker, Student, or Health and Care Visa.
Each category has specific requirements and eligibility criteria.
Step 2: Satisfy the Visa Requirements
Understand the eligibility requirements you’ll need to meet, both the general criteria for visa applicants as well as the specific requirements under the route you’re applying under.
For example, for certain work visas, you’ll need a job offer from a UK employer with a licensed sponsor. This includes the Skilled Worker and Health and Care Worker visa, as well as most temporary worker visas.
Students, however, need an offer from a licensed educational institution and receive a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
The Innovator Founder visa requires endorsement by an authorised body before the visa application can be made.
You can read our extensive guide to the Innovator Founder Visa here >>
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
Prepare all required documents to meet the visa requirements you are applying for.
You can read our extensive guide to UK Visa Supporting Documents here >>
Step 4: Complete the Online Application
Complete the visa application form on the UK Government’s official website.
You will be asked to provide personal information, details of your planned stay, and your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) number for a sponsored work visa or Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) as a student, where applicable.
Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee and Healthcare Surcharge
Pay the necessary visa application fee and the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge unless you are exempt. Health and Care visa applicants remain exempt from the surcharge.
Step 6: Schedule and Attend a Biometric Appointment
Book an appointment at a visa application centre to provide your fingerprints and photograph.
Step 7: Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents
Some applicants can upload documents online, while others may need to submit them at their biometric appointment. Follow the specific instructions provided during your application process.
Step 8: Await the Decision
Processing times can vary, but you’ll usually receive a decision within three weeks for applications made outside the UK or within eight weeks for applications made in the UK. Priority (5 working days) and super priority (24 hours) services are available for certain routes.
2. Documents and Evidence Required
The checklist of supporting documents will depend on the visa you are applying for, but the following will be required as a minimum:
a. Passport: Valid travel document with at least one blank page.
b. Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or sponsor letters proving you can support yourself (and dependents, if any) during your stay.
c. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) or Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS): For work and student visas, respectively.
d. Evidence of English Language Proficiency: Such as test results or proof of a degree taught in English.
e. Criminal Record Certificate: For certain jobs or if staying longer than six months.
f. Tuberculosis Test Results: If you’re from a country where this is required.
You can read our extensive guide to UK Visa Supporting Documents Checklist here >>
3. Tips for a Successful Application
a. Double-Check Eligibility and Documents: Make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria for your visa category and have all the required documents.
b. Proofread Your Application: Ensure all information is accurate and consistent with your documents.
c. Meet the English Language Requirement: Prepare for and take an approved English language test if needed.
d. Show Sufficient Funds: Clearly demonstrate you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay.
e. Be Honest and Complete in Your Answers: Provide truthful information and complete answers to all questions.
f. Prepare for Your Biometric Appointment: Arrive on time and bring all necessary documents to your biometric appointment.
g. Seek Professional Advice: DavidsonMorris can assist with compiling, reviewing and managing the UK visa application process.
You can read our extensive guide to the UK Visa Application Guide here >>
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Points-based visas are awarded or refused based on the evidence the caseworker has in front of them, applied against the rules on the date of the decision. The Home Office rarely asks for clarification. They will simply refuse.
Spend the time on building your evidence, following the stated evidentiary requirements under the relevant appendices, then go further. Anticipate the red flags, and support eligibility for each and every criteria.
Section D: Key Points Based Immigration Routes
A range of immigration routes are included under the Points Based System. Some of the more commonly used are the Skilled Worker Visa, the Health And Care Worker Visa and the Student Visa.
1. Skilled Worker Visa Requirements
The Skilled Worker category under the UK’s Points Based System (PBS) is designed for individuals who have been offered a job in the UK by a sponsor licence holder.
This category is essential for employers looking to hire foreign nationals in skilled positions.
Successful applicants are granted permission to stay in the UK for up to 5 years before they need to extend their visa. After five years, they may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain, granting them permanent residency in the UK.
Key eligibility and procedural requirements for the Skilled Worker visa include:
Salary Thresholds and Concessions
| Category | Salary Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General threshold | £41,700 per year or 100% of the going rate (whichever is higher) | Applies to most Skilled Worker roles from 22 July 2025 |
| Health & Care roles | £23,040 or £20,960 depending on occupation | Lower thresholds apply; applicants also exempt from IHS |
| Immigration Salary List (ISL) | £23,040 per year or 80% of the going rate | Applies to shortage-designated roles on ISL |
| New entrants | £23,040 per year or 70% of the going rate | Available for workers under 26, certain STEM roles, or those switching from Student visa |
| PhD roles (STEM subjects) | £23,040 per year or 80% of the going rate | Concession applies where the PhD is relevant to the job |
| PhD roles (non-STEM) | £26,100 per year or 90% of the going rate | Reduced threshold applies where the PhD is relevant to the job |
a. Job Offer from an Approved Sponsor
Applicants must have a job offer from an employer who is licensed by the UK Home Office to sponsor skilled workers. The job offer should be for a role that matches the applicant’s skills and qualifications.
b. Appropriate Skill Level
The job offer must be at or above a certain skill level. The UK uses the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) to classify job roles. Most skilled worker visas require the job to be at RQF level 3 or higher, corresponding to A-level qualifications.
You can read our extensive guide to the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) here >>
c. Minimum Salary Threshold
The salary for the job must meet or exceed a general salary threshold or the “going rate” for that particular occupation, whichever is higher. The general threshold is £41,700 per year or 100% of the occupation going rate, whichever is higher, unless a reduced rate applies depending on the job type, the Immigration Salary List, or other factors such as the applicant’s experience and qualifications.
d. English Language Proficiency
Applicants must prove their knowledge of English by either passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) at level B1 or higher, having a degree taught in English, or being a national of an English-speaking country.
Read our detailed guide to the Skilled Worker visa here >>
2. Health and Care Visa Eligibility Requirements
The Health and Care Visa is a specific category within the UK’s Points Based System designed to attract medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers, to work in the National Health Service (NHS), the social care sector, or for NHS suppliers.
This visa aims to provide a fast-track entry and reduced visa fees for eligible healthcare professionals, recognising their contribution to the UK’s public health sector.
Eligibility criteria for the Health and Care Visa include:
a. Job Offer in an Eligible Profession
Applicants must have a job offer from licensed employers in the NHS, an NHS supplier, or in adult social care. The job offer should be in one of the eligible professions listed by the UK government, which primarily includes medical practitioners, nurses, and several healthcare professionals.
b. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Similar to the Skilled Worker visa, applicants need a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from their UK employer. The CoS proves that the individual has been offered a role that qualifies for the Health and Care Visa.
c. Appropriate Skill Level
The job must be at the appropriate skill level. Most healthcare positions will meet this requirement as they often require a high level of qualification and expertise.
d. Minimum Salary Threshold
The offered salary must meet the general threshold or the specific going rate for the profession, ensuring that the pay reflects the skill level and qualifications required for the role. For many eligible roles, reduced thresholds apply, for example £23,040 or £20,960 depending on role type and Immigration Salary List status.
e. English Language Proficiency
Health and care professionals must demonstrate their knowledge of English, which is crucial for patient care and professional integration. This is typically proven by passing an English language test at the required level.
Read our detailed guide to the Health and Care Worker visa here >>
3. Student Visa Requirements
Under the UK’s Points Based System, the Student visa category is designed for international students who wish to undertake any post-16 education at a UK institution. This category plays a crucial role in promoting the UK as a global hub for education and cultural exchange.
Successful applicants can arrive in the UK before their course starts: up to 1 week before, if the course lasts 6 months or less, or up to 1 month before, if the course lasts more than 6 months. The length of stay allowed depends on the duration of the course and any additional study years granted for postgraduate research students or potential further study.
Key eligibility criteria include:
a. Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
To qualify for a Student visa, applicants must first receive an offer from a licensed student sponsor, which could be a university, college, or school. Following the acceptance of this offer, the institution will provide a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) number, which proves that the applicant has been accepted onto a course of study.
b. Course Requirements
The course must meet certain criteria depending on the level of education. For higher education, it must lead to a recognised qualification at RQF level 6 (equivalent to a bachelor’s degree) or above. Courses at lower levels must also meet specific requirements, such as being a full-time course leading to at least RQF level 3 or a recognised foundation program for postgraduate doctors or dentists.
c. Financial Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to cover their course fees for the first year of study and living costs. As of 2025, the maintenance requirement is £1,334 per month for up to 9 months for study in London and £1,023 per month for up to 9 months for study elsewhere in the UK.
d. English Language Proficiency
Students must prove their knowledge of English by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider. The required level of proficiency depends on the course and institution but is typically at the B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) for higher education courses.
Dependants are only permitted for students studying on postgraduate courses at research level (PhD or equivalent).
You can read our extensive guide to Student Visa UK here >>
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
The Skilled Worker route remains the primary visa for overseas workers. The route has been subject to significant reform, with salary and skills thresholds to attain points now tougher than ever, limiting the availability of the route to smaller numbers of applicants.
While transitional rules are intended to provide breathing space for those who would no longer be eligible under the revised requirements, in practice we are seeing confusion among sponsors and visa holders about what this means for immigration status and future plans. We strongly advise auditing current sponsored workers to identify whether transitional rules apply and to plan what will happen once those provisions end.
For sponsors, changes in work visa routes should trigger a review of immigration strategy against recruitment plans. With Skilled Worker visas no longer available for medium-skilled roles, and salary thresholds higher than ever, alternative immigration options may need to be explored.
Section E: Impact of the Points Based System on Immigration
The introduction of the Points Based System significantly altered immigration patterns in the United Kingdom, impacting various sectors, including the workforce and higher education.
Impact of the Points Based System
| Area | Impact | Practical Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled migration | System prioritises high-skilled roles and restricts medium or lower-skilled migration. | Employers must map roles carefully against SOC codes and consider alternative routes for mid-skill roles. |
| Salary thresholds | July 2025 changes raised the general threshold to £41,700, pricing out many roles. | Budget for annual threshold reviews and align pay with going rate updates to avoid refusals. |
| Dependants | Student visa dependants restricted to postgraduate research students only. | Plan early for family migration and consider long-term settlement impact when choosing visa routes. |
| Small businesses | Sponsorship costs and compliance duties can be prohibitive. | Assess cost-benefit of sponsorship against alternative workforce options or business routes. |
| Policy fluidity | Frequent changes to thresholds, lists and concessions create uncertainty. | Treat PBS as evolving policy, build flexibility into recruitment and immigration planning. |
1. Changes in Immigration Patterns
The PBS has shifted the focus towards attracting skilled migrants, prioritising those who can fill specific gaps in the UK labour market. By assigning points based on skills, qualifications, and the need within certain sectors, the UK has been able to more effectively manage the flow of migrants according to economic demands.
One of the system’s aims was to reduce the number of migrants coming to the UK for reasons deemed non-essential. By setting clear criteria and thresholds, such as minimum salary levels and language proficiency, the PBS has deterred lower-skilled migration and those unable to meet the stringent requirements, thereby focusing on individuals most likely to contribute economically.
The PBS has sought to enhance the UK’s ability to attract global talent, particularly in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, engineering, and technology. Special visa categories, like the Global Talent Visa, facilitate the entry of individuals recognised as leaders or potential leaders in their fields.
2. Impact on the Workforce
The PBS has been instrumental in filling skill gaps in the UK workforce, particularly in sectors experiencing shortages, such as healthcare, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), and IT. By enabling more targeted immigration, the system helps maintain the competitiveness of the UK’s economy.
While the system benefits large employers and sectors in dire need of skilled professionals, small businesses have faced challenges in navigating the PBS. The costs and administrative burdens associated with sponsoring overseas workers can be prohibitive for smaller enterprises.
The flexibility of the PBS allows for adjustments in response to the UK’s economic needs and labour market changes. This dynamic approach helps ensure that the workforce evolves in line with economic shifts and priorities.
However, frequent changes present a challenge for employers and applicants, who must ensure they are working to the most up-to-date requirements. Recent years have also seen tighter restrictions, such as increases in minimum salary thresholds and changes to dependant rules for students.
3. Impact on Higher Education
The PBS includes provisions for international students, making the UK an attractive destination for higher education. The ability of universities to attract talented students globally enhances the academic environment and contributes to the diversity of the student body.
International students make significant economic contributions, not just through tuition fees but also by spending in the local economy. Their presence supports jobs and services in university towns and cities.
The reintroduction of the post-study work visa under the PBS allows international students to remain in the UK for two years (three years for doctoral graduates) after completing their studies, contributing to the skilled workforce. This opportunity makes the UK more attractive to students who wish to gain work experience post-graduation.
Read more about the Graduate Route here >>
DavidsonMorris Strategic Insight
Points-based immigration is sold by the government as balanced and controlled, but applicants and sponsors are feeling the grip tightening. We are told current immigration policy aims to stem the flow of foreign nationals, but it remains to be seen what cost this has on the UK economy.
Sponsors and applicants should think of the points-based system as fluid policy and not a fixed set of rules. Flexibility in budgets and immigration strategies should be built into planning to mitigate the risk of rule changes.
Section F: Summary
The UK’s Points Based System represents a structured and strategic approach to immigration, aiming to attract individuals who can contribute positively to the nation’s economy, society, and educational institutions.
By assigning points for specific criteria such as skill level, salary, and language proficiency, the PBS ensures that only eligible applicants are able to work, study, or live in the UK.
This system covers various visa categories, including Skilled Workers, International Students, Health and Care Visas, and others, each designed to meet the UK’s diverse needs.
However, navigating the Points Based System and its requirements can be complex, and details may vary based on individual circumstances and ongoing policy changes. Frequent updates, particularly to salary thresholds and eligibility lists, mean that both employers and applicants must ensure they are working to the most recent guidance. Personalised advice can be the difference between a successful application and an unforeseen setback.
If you’re considering applying for a visa under the PBS, or if you’re an employer looking to sponsor overseas talent, our experts can help.
DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists, providing visa application services and tailored guidance to help you manage the process and improve your prospects of success. Contact us for expert advice.
Section G: FAQs
What is the Points Based System (PBS)?
The PBS is a method used by the UK to manage immigration, where applicants receive points for various criteria, such as skill level, salary, and language proficiency. It applies to workers, students, and several other categories of migrants, helping to ensure that only those who meet specific criteria can move to the UK.
Who needs to apply through the PBS?
Non-UK residents wishing to work or study in the UK typically need to apply through the PBS. Family visas, such as those under Appendix FM, are not part of the PBS, although dependants of PBS visa holders apply within the system.
How can I find out if I’m eligible for a visa under the PBS?
Eligibility depends on the specific visa category you’re applying for. Generally, you will need a job offer from a licensed sponsor (for work visas), an offer from a recognised educational institution (for student visas), or meet other specific criteria related to your visa type.
Can I bring my family members with me under the PBS?
Most PBS visas allow you to bring dependents, including your spouse, partner, and children under 18 years of age, provided certain conditions are met. Each dependent must apply for their visa, and you must show you have the financial means to support them during their stay. For Student visas, dependants are only permitted for those studying at postgraduate research level.
Is there a minimum salary requirement for the Skilled Worker visa?
Yes, the Skilled Worker visa requires you to be paid a minimum salary, which can vary depending on the job. As of July 2025, you must generally be paid the higher of either the general salary threshold of £41,700 per year or 100% of the occupation “going rate,” unless a lower rate applies, such as for roles on the Immigration Salary List, new entrants, PhD-qualified roles, or health and care workers.
How do I prove my English language proficiency?
You will need to pass a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider. The required level varies depending on your visa category but is typically at B1, B2, or higher on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Can I switch from one visa category to another within the PBS while I’m in the UK?
In many cases, you can apply to switch to a different visa category from within the UK, such as moving from a Student visa to a Skilled Worker visa. There are specific requirements for each category, and you must apply before your current visa expires. Visitor visa holders cannot usually switch into the PBS.
Are there any exceptions or waivers to the PBS requirements?
Some visa categories offer exceptions or waivers for certain requirements under specific conditions, such as roles on the Immigration Salary List for the Skilled Worker visa, which may have lower salary thresholds. Additionally, PhD-level roles and healthcare professionals on the Health and Care visa may benefit from different criteria. Always check the latest guidance.
How long does it take to get a decision on my PBS visa application?
Processing times can vary based on the visa category and where you apply from. Typically, decisions for applications made outside the UK are received within 3 weeks. For applications made within the UK, it can take up to 8 weeks. Priority and super priority services may be available.
Section H: Glossary
| Term | Meaning | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Points Based System (PBS) | A UK framework that manages immigration by awarding points for criteria such as skills, salary and English ability to qualify for visas. | davidsonmorris.com/points-based-system |
| Skilled Worker visa | Route for applicants with an offer of a qualifying job from an approved sponsor, meeting skill and salary thresholds. | davidsonmorris.com/skilled-worker-visa |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) | A reference number issued by a licensed sponsor confirming the job offer and that it meets route requirements. | davidsonmorris.com/certificate-of-sponsorship |
| Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) | A reference number issued by a licensed education provider confirming acceptance on a course. | davidsonmorris.com/confirmation-of-acceptance-for-studies-cas-uk |
| Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) | The UK system that categorises qualification levels used to assess job skill level for visa routes. | davidsonmorris.com/rqf |
| Secure English Language Test (SELT) | An approved English test used to evidence the required level in speaking, listening, reading and writing. | davidsonmorris.com/selt |
| Health and Care visa | Route for eligible health and social care roles with reduced fees, faster processing and IHS exemption. | davidsonmorris.com/health-and-care-visa |
| Global Talent visa | Route for leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts and culture, usually without a job offer. | davidsonmorris.com/global-talent-visa |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | The fee to access the NHS during stay. As of August 2025: £1,035 per year, or £776 for students, Youth Mobility and under 18s. | davidsonmorris.com/immigration-health-surcharge |
| Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) | A card showing biometrics and immigration status, used as proof of right to stay, work or study. | davidsonmorris.com/biometric-residence-permit |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | Permission to stay in the UK without time limit, usually after a qualifying period on an eligible route. | davidsonmorris.com/indefinite-leave-to-remain |
| Immigration Salary List (ISL) | The list that replaced the Shortage Occupation List, setting roles with adjusted salary rules where resident workers are scarce. | davidsonmorris.com/immigration-salary-list |
Section I: Additional Resources
| Resource | What it covers | Link |
|---|---|---|
| GOV.UK – New immigration system | Official government guide on the new immigration system, covering the points-based system and its key features | gov.uk/new-immigration-system |
| GOV.UK – Skilled Worker visa | Explains the Skilled Worker visa route, a major component of the points-based system | gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa |
| The Law Society | Directory of qualified immigration solicitors who can provide legal advice on PBS and related immigration matters | lawsociety.org.uk |
| Citizens Advice | Free guidance on immigration issues, including PBS visa categories and rights for applicants | citizensadvice.org.uk/immigration |
