Tie 1 (Exceptional Talent)

This category is for people who are recognised or have the potential to be recognised as leaders in the fields of science, engineering, humanities or the arts.  Every initial application must be endorsed by a 'designated competent body'. There is a limit of 1,000 endorsements in total each year begnning on 6 April and ending 5 April. 

The number of endorsements available will be divided between each of the designated competent bodies in that field, as agreed between the Home Secretary and those bodies.