Tier 2 replaced the old Work Permit scheme in November 2008, but Work Permit holders are allowed to switch to a Tier 2 visa in order to extend their residency. Skilled workers who are citizens of non-EU countries are required to obtain a Tier 2 visa in order to move to the UK. This type of visa also requires a minimum of 50 eligibility points.

There are four types of Tier 2 visa:
General visas allow foreign professionals to move to the country if a UK employer sponsors them. Overseas workers who move to the UK with a Tier 2 visa are usually in great demand and it’s skill shortages in their specific areas of expertise that generally necessitates the approval of their visa.

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Intra Company Transfers are designed for foreign nationals who have to move to the UK due to employer-mandated job relocation. For General and Intra Company Transfer visas, an S/NVQ level 3 or above is required, as specified in the relevant code of practice.

Sports People visas are for professional athletes and coaches whose employment is deemed a crucial factor in the development of their sport.

Ministers of Religion, as its name implies, is a type of work visa intended for preachers or ministers of religion, missionaries and other members of church polity.

The Tier 2 visa does not grant temporary residency, but it can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), popularly known as permanent UK residency.