The Highly Skilled Migration Programme was introduced in January 2002. The initial qualifying criteria were extremely high and made the HSMP unobtainable for most potential applicants however the criteria were reduced in 2002 to make the scheme more realistic. The scheme is now split in to two cases one for those under 28 and one for those above 28 the criteria for those under 28 have again been reduced in an attempt to attract skilled young professionals from overseas. Qualifying Criteria Essentially to qualify for this scheme, candidates have to demonstrate that they can achieve the current points threshold. Points are allocated based on the following criteria. Qualification Work experience Past earnings Age Spouse /Partner Qualifications / experience Achievements in ones chosen profession Priority To Applicants HSMP give priority to the applications of the following professionals. Doctors, Engineers, lawyers, Managers, IT professionals, Bankers, Charted Accountants, General Managers and Self-employed . GET YOUR HSMP FILES READY IN 300 POUNDS THIS OFFER IS FOR LIMITED PERIOD.