Kerala - Kochi   

New rules for working in the United Kingdom

KOCHI: Graduates who have studied in the U.K. will now be free to seek employment for up to two years under Tier 1 of the Points Based System (PBS).

This is twice the length of stay permitted under the old International Graduate Scheme (IGS) rules and allows the most able international graduates to find work in the U.K. without the need for a sponsor or work permit.

British High Commission officials said that the government is committed to facilitating the entry of skilled migrants and encouraging inward investment, both of which will benefit the U.K. economy.

With effect from June 30, Tier 1 of the PBS is also being extended to include Entrepreneurs and Investors. Tier 1 (post-study work) replaces IGS and the Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland Scheme.

It provides a bridge from study in the UK to highly skilled or skilled work. The country is a popular destination for students from India. They represent the second largest number of international students in higher education in the U.K., the officials said. The number of visas issued to Indian students is increasing year on year. In 2007 almost 22,000 student visas were issued across India, representing a 10 per cent increase on 2006. PBS tier 4 for students will be launched in early 2009.

PBS is the new system for managing migration for those wishing to enter the UK for work and study. Under PBS, applicants need sufficient points to qualify for a visa. Points are awarded for objective criteria such as qualifications, previous earnings, age and UK experience.

The new system is easier for applicants to use. It allows those wanting to work in the UK to calculate, before they make their application, whether their points add up to entry under Tier 1. It is also a quicker and more straightforward process.

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