The UK government operates this programme to allow individuals with exceptional skills and experience to seek entry or stay to work in the United Kingdom without having a prior offer of employment, or to take up self-employment opportunities.

The current HSMP Application process involves two stages:

(i) Stage 1: an application to be considered under the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (an HSMP application). If that application is approved, it does not confer permission to come to the UK or remain if already here;

(ii) Stage 2: If your HSMP application is approved, you must make a separate application to come to the UK if you are at present abroad or for further leave to remain as a Highly Skilled Migrant if you are already here in another category.

A points based system of qualification is used to assess applications. You can score points in six areas. The HSMP application form allows you to self assess your score on this aspect of the application. A caseworker considering your application will only consider awarding points where appropriate evidence has been supplied.

To make a successful application you will need to provide evidence that you score 65 points or more in the scoring categories and demonstrate that you will be able to continue a career or work lawfully in the United Kingdom. Please note that you do not have to score points in all categories to qualify under the program.

Verifying HSMP applications

The HSMP team may contact employers or the relevant High Commission or Embassy in order to verify any of the documentation provided as part of your HSMP application. The purpose of such checks is to verify that the information provided is a full and accurate description of the statements made in the HSMP application. Where there is doubt concerning any of the documents provided, we might be unable to consider that document as supporting evidence.

HSMP Home Office Address

If you wish to send your application by Courier, the delivery address is:

Immigration & Nationality Directorate
Work Permits (UK) HSMP
7th floor
Fountain Precinct
Balm Green
Sheffield
S1 2JA