Tier 1 (General) replaced the Highly Skilled Migrant Programme (HSMP) in June 2008. It is now closed to applicants from outside the UK, but people inside the UK can still switch into this category before April 5 2011. From April 5 2011, Tier 1(General) will be closed entirely.
Tier 1 (General) is for highly skilled people who intend to work or become self-employed in the UK. Under current rules (at date of posting) a job offer is not needed before a Tier 1 (General) application is made. You need to score enough points to enable you to switch, and these points can be calculated using the points based calculator on the UK Border Agency website.
In brief, you can switch into Tier 1 (General) if you have current leave to remain as a work permit holder, Tier 2 visa holder, HSMP, etc. Most visa holders who are able to work in the UK are allowed to switch into Tier 1 (General) if you score the necessary points.
Transitional arrangements will be announced in due course by the UK Border Agency, for existing Tier 1 visa holders after April 5 2011.
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