High Potential Individual Visa
The HPI visa is designed to grant permission to stay in the UK for a minimum of 2 years, and up to 3 years for those with a PhD or other doctoral qualification. Before applying, it is essential to understand the eligibility criteria and the application process.
To be eligible for the HPI visa, you must meet the following criteria:
Qualification from an Eligible University: You must have been awarded a qualification by an eligible university within the last 5 years. UK universities are not eligible. Please refer to the list of eligible universities based on rankings for the specific time frame of your qualification.
Type and Level of Qualification: Your qualification must be at the same level as a UK bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or PhD. It is crucial to apply to Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) to validate your qualification and its equivalence to the required levels.
English Language Proficiency: In the event that your English language proficiency falls below the B1 level, take proactive steps to enhance your language skills. Engage in language courses and regular practice to attain the required proficiency. Conversely, if your English proficiency is at the B1 level, you meet the language requirement. You can prove your proficiency by successfully passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) administered by an approved provider.
Financial Requirement:
To meet the financial requirement, maintain a minimum of £1,270 in your bank account for at least 28 days prior to application. Ensure compliance with this stipulation. If you have dependents, note that they also must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency in the UK:
- £285 for your partner
- £315 for one child
- £200 for each additional child