On August 9th 2011 the UK launched a new Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) immigration category, exceptionally talented candidates in various professional fields will be able to immigrate to the UK under this revamped version of the previous Tier 1 (General).
The new scheme will not only allow those who are already recognized as leaders in their field, but also those who show great potential to emigrate to the UK. The scheme will be limited to 1,000 places during the first year of operation. 500 places will be available between August 9th and November 30th, 2011, and a further 500 places will be become available from December 1st, 2011 to March 31st, 2012.
Those admitted under the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) scheme will be granted a visa for a preliminary period of 3 years. This visa can be extended for an additional 2 years. After 5 years residence in the UK, a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa holder will be able to apply for permanent residence if they so decide.
“We welcome the launch of this special visa scheme, which will enable the very best artists of international standing to live and work in the UK,” said Alan Davey, Chief Executive of Arts Council England and member of the selection council.
However, it will be very hard to qualify for a Tier 1 (Exceptional talent) visa, in comparison to the previous Tier 1 (General) visa which it is essentially replacing. Applicants will be chosen by a specially appointed group of individuals representing “competent bodies” of science, the arts, engineering and the humanities within the UK.
