International Cambridge
Visas and Points Based Immigration
The immigration system in the UK
Since 31 March 2009, the UK has operated a points-based immigration system. The points-based system only covers nationals from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
The points-based system consists of five tiers. These are:
- Tier 1 - highly skilled workers, for example scientists and entrepreneurs;
- Tier 2 - skilled workers with a job offer, for example teachers and nurses;
- Tier 3 - low skilled workers filling specific temporary labour shortages (currently suspended);
- Tier 4 - students;
- Tier 5 - youth mobility and temporary workers, for example musicians coming to play in a concert.
The University of Cambridge is a licensed sponsor for Tiers 2, 4 and 5.
Information for students
International Student Team
The International Student Team is responsible for ensuring that the University of Cambridge complies with general sponsorship duties and specific duties under Tier 4. The International Student Team also advises Cambridge Colleges and Departments on changes to UKBA regulations and support them in record-keeping and other administrative procedures related to sponsorship and reporting duties.
The team is also responsible for preparing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the following students who require a visa:
- New undergraduates
- Current students (both undergraduates and graduates) requiring more time to complete their course
- Visiting students
The International Student Team can also offer advice to students regarding visa applications, refusals, rejections and other immigration issues.
Board of Graduate Studies
The Graduate Admissions team at the Board of Graduate Studies is responsible for preparing a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for the following students who require a visa:
• New graduate students
Graduates applying for continuation
Information for staff
If you are seeking to enter under Tier 2 or Tier 5 then the Human Resources Division may be able to offer assistance with immigration.
- Information for staff who require entry clearance to work in the UK
- Contact details for the Compliance Team, Human Resources Division
External resources
UK Border Agency
The UKBA is responsible for controlling migration in the UK and is the agency that considers applications for permission to enter or stay in the UK. Any individual intending to come to the UK or who is already in the UK as a migrant should ensure that they understand immigration guidelines and keep up to date with changes to legislation.
UKCISA
The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) is the UK's national advisory body serving the interests of international students and those who work with them.
The UKCISA website is valuable source of information about immigration and many other topics of interest to international students.
The title of this document is:
University of Cambridge: Visas and Points based immigration
URL:
http://www.cam.ac.uk/international/visas.html
Last updated: 11/10/2011