Tier 1

[sansa]

I am planning to apply for Tier 1 from India. Is it mandatory that we spend most of our time in UK as a requisite before I apply (this was compulsory requirement for the HSMP visa). I am planning to spend most of my time in India with 2 or 3 months of locum work in UK as a doctor. Will I qualify for the Tier 1. Could someone kindly help.

[geriatrix]

Is it mandatory that we spend most of our time in UK as a requisite before I apply (this was compulsory requirement for the HSMP visa).

No, it wasn't. Neither for HSMP and nor for Tier 1 now.

You can *apply* for the Tier 1 scheme from anywhere in the world (without the any pre-condition of having lived or worked in the UK (ever)), and upon approval, you will be given leave to enter (entry clearance/visa) for a period of 3 years. What is important to understand is that this immigration scheme is for people who wish to live and work in the UK, so yes, you'll have to make UK your home and at the time of extension (when the 3 years' leave is due for renewal) you'll be required to meet the extension criteria applicable then.

I am planning to spend most of my time in India with 2 or 3 months of locum work in UK as a doctor. Will I qualify for the Tier 1. Could someone kindly help.

As mentioned, living / working in UK is not a prerequisite for an initial Tier 1 application. This said, I hope you are aware that doctors on a Tier 1 leave to enter/remain are not eligible to work in training posts in the NHS. (I hope you are aware of the legal requirements for international graduates before they can practice medicine in UK. e.g. - PLAB exams and GMC registration).

regards