What Is the Points-Based Immigration System?

What Is It?

The UK's points-based immigration system is the framework used to manage immigration from outside the Common Travel Area (Ireland, Channel Islands, Isle of Man). It replaced the old EU freedom of movement rules after Brexit.

How Points Work

Applicants are awarded points based on specific criteria. Different visa routes have different requirements:

Skilled Worker Visa (most common)

You need 70 points to qualify:

• 25 points — Job at the required skill level (RQF 3+)
• 20 points — English language ability (B1 level)
• 20 points — Salary meets the threshold (£38,700 or "going rate")
• 10 points — Job in a shortage occupation

Some points are tradable. For example, a lower salary can be compensated by a job in a shortage occupation or a relevant PhD.

Visa Routes Under the System

• Skilled Worker — for people with a job offer from a UK employer
• Health and Care Worker — for doctors, nurses, and health professionals
• Global Talent — for leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, and technology
• Innovator Founder — for experienced business people with innovative ideas
• Graduate — for international students who have completed a UK degree
• Student — for international students coming to study

What Does This Mean for You?

If you are already in the UK on one of these visas, understanding the points system helps you:

• Know when to extend your visa
• Understand what you need for ILR (settlement)
• Plan your path to British citizenship

From Visa to Citizenship

Most people follow this route:

1. Enter on a points-based visa (e.g., Skilled Worker)
2. Extend as needed until you reach 5 years
3. Apply for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain)
4. Pass the Life in the UK Test
5. Apply for British citizenship after 12 months with ILR

Start your journey by preparing for the Life in the UK Test — it is one of the requirements you can control and prepare for right now.