Visa Information
Working in the UK requires a valid visa which should be applied for and approved before you leave. To gain complete answers to your questions, we strongly recommend you visit www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk
The most common types of Visa are:
Tier 1 (General)
The Tier 1 (General) replaced the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme from 30 June 2008.
This is a points-based system rewarded on attributes including age, qualifications, previous earnings, and UK experience, along with English language ability, and maintenance funds of £2800. It allows an initial three years stay in the UK, to a maximum of five years.
Click here to calculate your points and see if you are eligible.
Or visit The British High Commission for more information.
Working Holiday Visa (WHV)
This can be obtained if you are under the age of 31 by the date you TRAVEL. It entitles you to Temporary (Contract) work only and means you can work for 52 weeks in the two year period it is issued for.
Read our June 2008 Article on the WHV vs. HSMP - Which is the Best Visa for the UK? (Please note, the HSMP has changed to the Tier 1 (General) from 30 June 2008)
Full Working Rights
Many Kiwis are eligible or already have a British or EU passport. This means you can obtain a Visa through Ancestry, Right of Abode or a Spousal Visa. Some EU passports do have restrictions, again, please check with www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk
Sponsorship
If your skills are highly valued or very rare in the UK, a company may be willing to sponsor you. This is seen as a last resort and is very rare in the UK.
For comprehensive visa information please visit: