The HPI route is a new elite points-based route to attract ‘the brightest and best' to the UK.
Comes into force: on 30 May 2022
Requirements for applicants
Applicants in this route must have been awarded within the last 5 years either a bachelor’s or postgraduate degree from one of the top global universities outside the UK.
Requirements for universities
The university ranking will be published in the Home Office’s ‘Global Universities List'. The list will be compiled annually and consist of eligible non-UK institutions included in the list of the top 50 universities in at least two of the following ranking systems:
1. Times Higher Education World University
Rankings: in 2022, the ranking includes California Institute of Technology, Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the top-5 best world universities.
2. Quacquarelli Symonds World University
Rankings: in 2022, the ranking includes Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University, Harvard University, California Institute of Technology in the top-5 best world universities.
3. The Academic
Ranking of World Universities: in 2022, the ranking includes Harvard University, Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, and University of California, Berkeley in the top-5 best world universities.
Language requirement
English level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), in common with the Skilled Worker route.
Visa duration
The visa will be granted for 2 years for individuals with a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelor’s or Master’s level degree; or for 3 years for individuals with a qualification equivalent to a UK PhD.
Dependents
Successful applicants will be able to bring dependent family members (spouses/partners and children under 18), as in other work routes.