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The UK Government introduced an interim limit on the number of initial Tier 1 (General) visa applications that can be issued overseas on 19 July 2010. The limit does not affect applications from Tier 1 (General) dependents or applications for Tier 1 visas made from within the UK. This limit is in effect until 31 March 2011, after which a permanent cap will be introduced.
The UK Border Agency (UKBA) administers the limit on a monthly basis. As of 07 December 2010, all 600 Tier 1 (General) visas available for the month of December have been used up.
You can still submit an application for a Tier 1 (General) visa; however, if your application is successful you will not receive your visa until the UKBA starts issuing visas again. Moreover, with the permanent cap that is coming in April 2011, Tier 1 (General) will be replaced by an 'exceptional talent' visa. There will only be 1,000 visas available per years; Hardly anyone will meet the new requirements anyway!
If you are a highly skilled individual who wishes to immigrate to the UK without a job offer from a UK employer, you will probably need to apply before the permanent cap is introduced in April 2011 and before the replacement for the Tier 1 (General) visa.
workpermit.com can help you with your application. We have over 20 years experience helping people immigrate to countries around the world. If you would like us to assist you with your application, please contact one of our offices or fill out a free assessment form. One of our representatives will then contact you to discuss your options.
