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Managing migration


Our objective is to boost Britain's economy by bringing the right skills here from around the world and ensuring this country is easy to visit legally.

On Friday 29 February 2008, a new Australian-style points-based system was introduced to ensure that only those with the right skills or the right contribution will be able to come to the United Kingdom to work and study.

Applicants earn points for their skills and the potential they show for economic success, and must show competence in English language and the ability to support themselves and their dependants.

Employers and sponsors play a crucial part in making sure the system is not abused. Employers and institutions must apply for a licence to sponsor and bring migrants into the United Kingdom, and meet a number of sponsorship duties.

The points based system

This section explains what the points-based system for immigration is, how it works, the five tiers, the points-based assessment, sponsorship duties and the timetable for launch.

Migrations Impact Forum

The Migration Impacts Forum (MIF) was launched by its co-chairs, Liam Byrne, Minister for Immigration at the Home Office, and Phil Woolas, Minister for Communities at the Department for Communities and Local Government, on 21 June 2007, when it met for the first time in London.

Business visitors

This page explains the business and special visitors visa.