Effective July 1, people wishing to apply to stay in the United Kingdom for a limited period under the following categories must apply for their UK visa under a new points-based system:

1. General: Those looking for highly skilled employment in the UK, or are self-employed or setting up a business;

2. Investor: Applicants making a large investment in the UK;

3. Entrepreneur: Those investing in the UK by setting up or taking over the running of a business;

4. Post-study: Persons studying now or who have studied in the past in the UK.

Under the new system, applicants will need to amass points to satisfy the visa service that they can make a positive contribution to the UK.

Points will be awarded for objective criteria such as qualifications, previous earnings, age and UK experience. Only those with enough points will be able to get a visa.

Applicants are able to calculate how many points they will be awarded and, therefore, if they are likely to be issued a visa before making an application.