Topic: Aust people ... info about EC
Hi, my consultant from 1st contact has just emailed me this information about EC... ...
I am writing to inform you about new changes to the entry clearance requirements for holders of HSMP approval letters and how these changes will affect those that are currently part way through the HSMP application process.
On Monday 30 June 2008, Tier 1 of the UK's new five-tier points-based migration system was introduced worldwide. The Tier 1 system replaces the two staged Highly Skilled Migrant Programme with a single application. The HSMP is now closed and all new applications will have to be submitted under the one stage Tier 1 (General) – highly skilled worker application.
Some applicants will be part-way through the current two-stage application process (application for Highly Skilled Migrant Programme approval letter, followed by a separate application for entry clearance), whereby they have applied for their HSMP letter, but have yet to learn whether they have been successful.
Transitional arrangements have been put in place to allow those who have (or receive) an HSMP approval letter to apply for entry clearance by making a Tier 1 (General) - highly skilled worker application to the relevant British High Commission/Consulate. If you apply with a valid HSMP approval letter, you are charged a reduced Tier 1 (General) fee for your entry clearance application.
When you have been issued with the HSMP approval letter and apply for entry clearance, you will now have to make a Tier 1 (General) - highly skilled worker application. You are automatically awarded the 75 points required to qualify under the attributes points assessment of Tier 1 (General) - highly skilled worker and the 10 points required for English language (as you met these requirements in your HSMP application). You will still need to meet the new maintenance requirement:
Maintenance
To meet the new maintenance requirements, you must have held £2800 or more in your bank account during the three months before the date your application is received at the office of the relevant British High Commission/Consulate. These funds must be held in your personal bank account and if held in foreign currency you will be required to use the rate of exchange on the last day of your three months bank statements. You must have maintained this level of funds for the entire period (i.e. the balance must have never fallen below £2800).
Failure to meet the maintenance requirements will result in your application for entry clearance being declined.
HSMP approval letters are valid for six months from the date of issue and you thus will need to make an application for entry clearance before the approval letter expires. |
Topic: Closing the HSMP program
Hi, i applied on the 7th May using 1st contact, my consultant informed me that my application will still go through as HSMP, only if you apply after the 30th june then it would be tier 1. SO this new rule should not effect us. |
Topic: March/April applications
Hi
Any one who applied in March/ April been approved?
Surely they are not still on the 21st feb applications...
I applied 6th May. So i guess i can expect over 36 day wait?!
Good Luck everyone |
Topic: HSMP waiting times
Hi Nancy
Good Luck looks like our applications are in at about the same time. I haven't heard any quicker then 5 weeks at this stage. Fingers crossed i guess!
Lucy |
Topic: How HO verify employment letter
Hi Nancy
For the earnings question I supplied bank statements, payslips, letter from my employer and tax forms. I used the company 1st contact to represent me and this is what they asked for. I guess you would still be over the 75 points no matter if your salary is taken as 100k or 104k, either way you make the points for that category.
Good luck, lets hope they are getting through the applications a bit quicker now!
Lucy |
Topic: HSMP waiting times
Hello
I am currently back in Australia and waiting for my HSMP visa (submitted on the 6th May). I am using 1st contact to represent me. At this stage the home office is saying between 5 and 14 weeks! Has anyone heard any different on times??
Also does anyone know whether it would be ok to re-enter the UK on a tourist visa while waiting for the HSMP and not have to return to Australia again and just change from tourist to HSMP if I get it!
Many thanks
Lucy |
