And?

My application for a Highly Skilled Migrant Permit was approved!

One huge relief ... yes. But in typical UK beauracratic style, I now have to apply for Leave to Remain in the UK which is not necessarily granted even though I have HSMP status! It's a complete farce. Anyway, I sent off my application, passport and 350GBP to the Border and Immigration Department.

All up, I will have coughed up 665GBP plus all the postage costs for this visa.

So there will be no way that I will accept a permanent position at any hospital in London after outlaying that kind of money. I only recently found out what a permanent therapist earns .... 1130GBP per month. I earn substantially more than that. And when my rent is 600GBP per month ... that kind of money wouldn't stretch far at all. I'd rather go out on a limb and set up a private practice than work for a pitance.

Saying all this, I'm still to find out what is happening with the position in the Middle East. Apparently it's still in the pipe line. The delay is down to licences and red tape. Pfft. I'll believe it's real when I see a contract and an airline ticket.

In the meantime, I nervously await the return of my passport ... and final approval and a visa for me to remain in the UK. Joy.