the UK needs me for one more year

-- unless the pound is weak. I have exactly 75 points, which is the minimum required to enter the UK as a "highly skilled worker" without any job lined up. I get 5 points for being 30. I'll still get 5 for being 31, but that's my last chance. However, I currently get 20 points for my income over the previous 12 months. If I earn more than £26,000 in a year (currently $41,344 or €27,870), then I can enter the UK whenever I like. Assuming they approve my application.