Tier 1 Visa – Exceptional Talent – Points Based System

You do not need a job offer to apply under the exceptional talent category. When you apply you will be awarded points based on being considered a person of exceptional talent by a designated competent body. The Home Office will decide what constitutes a designated competent body.

Only 1,000 of these visas will be granted each year, 700 in the field of the sciences, 300 in the arts.

You will need to show that you can afford to support yourself in the UK without recourse to public funds. There is no minimum maintenance requirement, and there is no language requirement for initial entry.

In order to extend this visa, you need to provide evidence of working in the UK, either in the form of payslips (if employed) or evidence from an accountant (if self employed).

Applicants for extension must also meet the English language requirements.

Validity of Visa: Initial 3 years.

Permanent Residence: Available after 5 years