HSMP vs Work Permit, which is better ?. Having been of a UK work permit for 4 years and on HSMP for 1 year, definitely Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) is worth the effort and the money you spend. While a UK work permit would restrict you to one employer, with HSMP you can change your employer (or be even self employed) at any time without having to inform the Home office, and without any form filling and more anxious waiting for letters from Home Office. However the most important aspect of HSMP is that you do not need a job offer from a UK employer to apply for HSMP. Once you get HSMP you look for a job, this is very flexible compared to the rigid work permit process.

I will stop for today with the best reason I think you should go for HSMP is, when you travel and try to get back to the UK, with your HSMP and associated Visa, the immigration control will not longer ask questions like “Where do you work ?”, “Any changes to your working conditions ?” . Usually my answer to the latter is “Nothings changed except that I’ve been given more work !”. Well no more such questions at 3:00 am at the air port.

Just go for HSMP it’s very simple and straightforward !

If you have any questions as always please post them as comments.