South African HSMP wanting to move to London

Shro69 · #1 (**permalink**) 13th July 2008, 07:40 PM

Hello,

I am a 30yo SA scientist wanting to move to London-using online calculators, I see that I qualify with relevant points etc.
I have lived in the UK for 2 years in the past ( Working Holiday), so know my way around & already have a bank a/c, NI number etc.

I just have a few questions:
-Has anyone from SA applied for this visa on their own-ie. not using an agency, looking at the guidelines, documents required etc, I feel that I have everything in order-all I really need is someone to give my application the once over before being submitted, but most agencies want R6K for that-I would love to hear from anyone has gone the application on their own, or even the names of some Immigration lawyers in SA who may be able to help me only with what I need. I have already been in touch with most agencies in SA.
-What is the London job market like right now? I have a BSc in Microbiology & have recently completed a BCom in Marketing-does anyone have a feel of whether the whole global economic downturn will affect my chances of getting any good jobs? I am looking more towards the marketing rather than science side of things. In SA, I currently earn over R400K as a scientist-using the current exchange rates this may not mean much in pounds but can I expect something similar-dont want to go down in my lifestyle!

Any feedback will be MOST appreciated.

coachfiona · #2 (**permalink**) 21st July 2008, 07:33 PM

Hi there

The best way to really get a good idea about the job market would be to look at on line job sites such as monster and total jobs. You will be able to search for jobs here and it will give you an idea of quantity, quality and salaries of jobs available.

Hope that is helpful.

Fiona

Shro69 · #3 (**permalink**) 22nd July 2008, 08:20 PM

Hi Fiona,

Thanks for the reply.

I do use Monster very often, but it sometimes gives a skewed view so I was hoping for any info from those in general who may be searching for jobs right now.

Also, as I have 2 degrees, but not much experience in the one, I am a little wary how that will be viewed!

Thanks though.
S