If a person is currently in UK within an immigration category different from HSMP and he wants to switch to HSMP, he should submit at first an initial HSMP application and after that apply for Further Leave to Remain under the HSMP.

Individuals already in the UK may apply to switch into HSMP without leaving the UK provided they have leave as a:

• Work permit holder; or
• Student who has successfully obtained a degree level qualification on a recognised degree course at either a UK publicly funded further or higher education institution or a bona fide UK private education institution which maintains satisfactory records of enrolment and attendance; or
• Postgraduate doctor or a postgraduate dentist or trainee general practitioner; or
• Working holidaymaker; or
• Science and Engineering Graduates Scheme participant; or
• Innovator; or
• Fresh Talent: Working in Scotland scheme participant.

The leave to remain application will not be successful if the individual is in the United Kingdom as a visitor, on temporary admission, or without permission.

The below arrangements allow for a further period of leave to be granted to applicants who have failed to meet the minimum of 75 points, but still cover the English Language Requirements. They should be able to demonstrate that they have established themselves in business in the UK during their preceding period of leave under HSMP.

In that case you should provide evidence, that:
- Your last approval under HSMP was granted prior to 8 November 2006;
- You failed to meet the 75 points pass-mark;
- You cover the English Language Requirements;
- You have, during your preceding period of leave under HSMP, set up your own business, either single or with others;
- Your business has been established and actively trading for at least the last four months prior to your application;
- Your business has ongoing contractual/business commitments to cover at least the next six months.