Essentially, in order to make a successful application, individuals are required to score a minimum of 65 points from the following areas:

-  Educational qualifications

-  Work experience

-  Past earnings

-  Achievement in chosen field

-  HSMP priority applications (for salaried General Practitioners)

-  Having a skilled partner / spouse in the UK / accompanying you to the UK

-  Age

There are different scoring opportunities for those that are under 28, and those that are 28 and over.

Most people will amass their points from the first three areas and it is possible to score a maximum of 130 points from these areas. Please note that there is no advantage to be gained from scoring any more than the requisite 65 points. Original documentation to prove your points scoring will need to be provided with any application.

In addition to showing that you score the requisite 65 points, individuals applying for the HSMP must also demonstrate:

-  Their ability to continue working in the UK within their field;

-  Evidence of finances and accommodation to show that you are able to support yourself without recourse to public funds (benefits) in the UK;

-  That you are able and willing to make the UK your main home