UK Work Visas: From Tiers to Points – What You Need to Know

For years, the UK operated under the Tiered Visa System, categorizing work visas into structured levels. However, in recent years, the country has transitioned to a Points-Based Immigration System, streamlining the application process and focusing on skills, salary, and job demand. If you’re considering working in the UK, understanding these changes is crucial.

The Old UK Tier System

Previously, the UK’s work visas were divided into five tiers:

• Tier 1 (High-Value Migrants): For exceptionally talented individuals, investors, and entrepreneurs.
• Tier 2 (Skilled Workers): For professionals offered a job in the UK, including the General, Intra-Company Transfer, and Health and Care Worker routes.
• Tier 3 (Low-Skilled Workers): This category was originally meant for temporary labor but was never fully implemented.
• Tier 4 (Student Visas): For international students pursuing education in the UK.
• Tier 5 (Temporary Workers): For short-term employment, including charity workers, religious roles, and creative industry professionals.

The Shift to a Points-Based Immigration System

The UK government replaced the Tier system with a more flexible Points-Based System (PBS) in 2020. This new framework prioritizes skills and salary thresholds over predefined tiers.

Key Changes in the New System:

• Elimination of Tier Labels: Work visas are now categorized based on job roles rather than strict tier definitions.
• Skilled Worker Focus: Applicants must meet skill and salary requirements to qualify.
• Points-Based Evaluation: Candidates earn points based on job offer, salary, education, and English proficiency.
• Employer Sponsorship: Most workers require a UK employer to sponsor their visa application.

How Points Are Awarded in the UK Work Visa System

To qualify for a UK work visa, applicants need at least 70 points, distributed as follows:

• Job Offer from a UK Employer (20 points)
• Job at an Appropriate Skill Level (20 points)
• English Language Proficiency (10 points)
• Salary of £38,700+ per year (20 points) (or £23,200+ for health and education roles)

Additional points can be earned for jobs on the Shortage Occupation List or holding a PhD in a relevant field.

What This Means for Workers

The shift to the Points-Based System has:

• Simplified the application process by removing unnecessary tiers.
• Increased opportunities for skilled workers, especially in high-demand industries like healthcare and technology.
• Eliminated the need for a labor market test, making hiring faster for employers.
• Lowered salary thresholds for healthcare and education professionals, attracting more international talent.

Final Thoughts

Understanding these visa changes is essential for anyone looking to work in the UK. The Points-Based System has made migration more structured, favoring professionals with in-demand skills.

Stay tuned for our next post if you’re in healthcare or another skilled profession.

For more updates, visit Lavhi today!

Read More

• UK Visa Updates in 2025: Increased Financial and Salary Requirements for Students and Workers
• A Winning Guide to Mastering Your UK Student Visa SOP in 2025
• 3 Essential Entrance Exams International Students Must Pass to Study in the UK
• The Vital Role of Social Workers in Healthcare: A Hidden Force in Patient Care
• High-Paying Healthcare Jobs Without a Medical Degree in 2025