Timetable for launch
This page explains the timetable for launch of the points-based system for work and study of both migrant and sponsor applications.
The five tiers and the dates from which we will start accepting applications under them are:
| Tier | Applications open for sponsors | Applications open for migrants |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1: highly skilled workers | No sponsor needed | Open now |
| Tier 1: investors, entrepreneurs and post-study workers | No sponsor needed | Open now |
| Tier 2: skilled workers with a job offer to fill gaps in United Kingdom labour force | 28 February 2008 | November 2008 |
| Tier 3: limited numbers of low-skilled workers needed to fill temporary labour shortages | This tier is currently suspended | This tier is currently suspended |
| Tier 4: students | 28 July 2008 | We are consulting education providers about this and will publish more details in October 2008. |
| Tier 5: temporary workers and youth mobility scheme: people allowed to work in the United Kingdom for a limited period of time to satisfy primarily non-economic objectives | 28 July 2008 | November 2008 |
Employers who want to be able to bring in migrant workers when tiers 2 and 5 open at the end of November 2008 should apply for a sponsor licence as soon as possible. We recommend that you make your application for a sponsor licence as soon as possible so we can make sure you get the earliest possible decision and minimise any delays to your recruitment process. In order to help us process your application please make sure you send in a complete and accurate application, fee and appropriate supporting documentation. If we contact you to request further information or to arrange a visit please comply as soon as possible.
If you want to bring in migrants to work before this date, you should use the existing work permit routes. See the section on work permit arrangements for more details.
