Scale Up Visa UK: Eligibility, Process & Benefits

Get in touch with KD Immigration Experts for general queries, feedback, and requests for information

The Scale Up visa allows high-growth companies to hire talent from overseas with greater ease and flexibility compared with other UK work visas.

As a hybrid work visa, the Scale Up route allows qualifying workers to come to the UK to work initially in a sponsored role, and after six months, the Scale Up worker no longer requires sponsorship by their UK employer.

For employers, this route can present a number of challenges, such as maintaining compliance with the sponsor licence requirements and managing the risk of Scale Up workers leaving after the initial six months, as the visa allows employees to switch jobs without needing a new sponsorship.

For workers, challenges may arise from the need to prove their qualifications and experience to meet the visa’s skill level requirements.

Both employers and workers need to carefully consider these factors to ensure a successful application and ongoing compliance with the visa conditions.

In this comprehensive guide to the Scale Up visa, we set out the eligibility criteria, application process, and the benefits of the Scale Up Visa for businesses and workers. We also address common questions and provide practical tips to help compile a successful application.

Section A: What is the Scale Up Visa?

The Scale Up visa is a points-based route for migrant workers who have been recruited by a UK Scale Up sponsor, and who have the skills necessary to enable the sponsor’s business to continue growing. This visa is designed to allow those with a suitable job offer at the required skill level from a recognised UK Scale Up to qualify for a fast-track visa.

Although the applicant must be employed in the job for which they’re being sponsored for the first 6 months of their grant of leave, Scale Up workers are then permitted to work full-time at any skill level. This means the Scale Up worker will be sponsored only for the first six months of this period, after which they can work for any employer.

Study is also permitted under this route, subject to the ATAS condition — this is a requirement to obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate before studying certain sensitive subjects at postgraduate level.

The Scale Up worker will be able to bring dependent family members to the UK, as in other work routes, including a dependent partner and dependent children. The primary visa-holder and any qualifying family members may also be able to eventually apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK, provided they meet the eligibility requirements for settlement.

Entry clearance, or permission to remain when switching from a different immigration route from inside the UK, will initially be granted under the Scale Up route for 2 years.

Unlike other visa routes that might impose more restrictive conditions, the Scale Up Visa offers greater flexibility in terms of employment, allowing businesses to respond quickly to their talent needs as they scale up operations.

Table: Comparison of UK Visa Types

While the Skilled Worker Visa requires continuous sponsorship or the duration of the visa, the Scale Up visa does not impose a sponsorship requirement after the first six months of the visa. This reduces the administrative burden on employers while allowing greater flexibility for Scale Up workers, as they can switch jobs after six months without needing to update their visa, offering a level of job mobility not typically found with other visas. It also has a lower general salary threshold than the Skilled Worker Visa, making it potentially open to more skilled workers.

However, the Scale Up visa is limited to businesses that are rapidly expanding and have demonstrated significant growth, whereas the Skilled Worker visa is open to all employers across all parts of the economy, provided they have a valid sponsor licence.

When compared to the Innovator Founder Visa, which is designed for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in the UK, the Scale Up visa is focused on employees rather than business founders. The Innovator Founder Visa also requires endorsement from an approved body, whereas the Scale Up Visa is granted based on the business’s growth metrics.

Section B: Scale Up Visa Sponsorship Rules

The Scale Up category is a hybrid visa, imposing sponsorship requirements on the employer during the visa application process and the first six months of the visa’s validity. After this initial six-month period, the worker no longer needs to be sponsored, which has the effect of alleviating the employer of its sponsorship compliance obligations about the Scale Up worker, and means the worker has the option to change roles or employer.

1. Initial 6 Months of the Scale Up Visa

During the visa application stage, businesses intending to sponsor a worker under the Scale Up Visa must first obtain a sponsorship licence from the UK Home Office. The business must demonstrate that it meets specific eligibility criteria, including a consistent growth rate of at least 20% in employment or turnover over the past three years. Once the licence is granted, the business issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the prospective employee, detailing the job offer, salary and role specifics.

Once the visa is approved and the worker arrives in the UK, the first six months of employment are closely tied to the sponsoring business. During this period, the worker is required to remain employed by the sponsoring company in the role specified in the CoS. The business must ensure that the job meets the minimum salary requirement of £36,300 per year or the “going rate” for the occupation, whichever is higher.

After the initial six months, the worker gains more flexibility and is permitted to switch employers without needing to update their visa.

2. After 6 months of Scale Up Sponsorship

A sponsored Scale Up worker who makes a successful visa application on the Scale Up route will initially be granted permission to work in the UK for 2 years. However, the worker will only need to be sponsored for the first six months of their permission.

After 6 months, the original employer will no longer sponsor the worker after this period, even if they continue to employ them. At this stage, the worker can continue working for their original employer without being sponsored. However, they will also have the option to change job or even employer without requiring renewed sponsorship, provided they continue to meet the relevant requirements on the Scale Up route.

For the original sponsor, who is likely to have invested a great deal of time and resources in applying for a Scale Up sponsor licence so as to recruit a migrant worker from overseas, this can prove to be an expensive exercise, so it is often in the interests of the sponsoring employer to provide an incentive for the worker to stay on. This is perhaps the biggest downside for sponsors when it comes to recruiting Scale Up workers.

However, on the plus side, if the worker continues to work for their original employer, the employer will be relieved of any further sponsorship duties moving forward. It is, therefore, only during the first six months that you will need to comply with your reporting duties, for example, informing UKVI if the worker is absent from work without your permission or if there are any significant changes to the nature of their role or salary, or to your business.

3. After 2 Years of Scale Up Sponsorship

At the end of the 2-year visa under the Scale Up route, the migrant worker can opt to make an unsponsored application and be granted permission on this route for a further period of 3 years.

There is also no limit on the number of times that they can apply to extend their stay. After five years of lawful continuous residence in the UK on the Scale Up route, or even in combination with other eligible or eligible routes, the overseas worker can then apply to settle permanently in the UK, otherwise known as indefinite leave to remain.

Section C: Scale Up Visa Endorsement Pathway

The Scale-up Visa Endorsement Pathway offers an alternative route for UK employers who want to sponsor skilled workers but do not yet meet the standard eligibility requirements set by the Home Office. The aim is help ‘younger’ or smaller companies with strong growth potential that are not able to demonstrate three years of consistent growth in turnover or staffing.

To qualify automatically for a Scale-up sponsor licence, a business must have grown by at least 20% in either turnover or employee count in each of the last three years, and must have had at least 10 employees at the beginning of that period. Many legitimate scale-up businesses, particularly those in the tech or innovation sectors, fall short of this strict threshold. The endorsement pathway is intended to give those businesses a fair opportunity to access the Scale-up route

To use this pathway, the employer will need to apply to a Home Office-approved endorsing body. These bodies carry out an independent assessment of the business, reviewing financial performance, business plans, and potential for future growth. If the endorsing body is satisfied that the business meets the criteria, it will issue an endorsement reference number.

The endorsement fee is £1,500, excluding VAT, which is paid directly to the endorsing body and is separate from the sponsor licence application fee payable to the Home Office. Once endorsed, the employer can apply for a Scale-up sponsor licence using the reference number provided.

Employers should ensure that their application to the endorsing body includes evidence of trading history, growth plans and the business need for international talent.

Section D: Scale Up Visa Requirements

The Scale Up visa requires both the employer and the worker to meet specific eligibility criteria.

1. Scale Up Visa Worker Requirements

Applicants on this route must be aged 18 or over on the date of application. They must also have a genuine, high-skilled sponsored job offer from an authorised UK Scale Up business at the required salary level. The job must be skilled to RQF 6 and equivalent (graduate level). This means that the applicant must be sponsored for a job in an occupation code listed in Appendix Skilled Occupations under the UK’s Immigration Rules that is identified as eligible for the Scale Up route.

The applicant must also be paid at least £36,300 per year, or the ‘going rate’ for the occupation code in question, whichever is the higher.

The English language and financial requirements will apply under the Scale Up route, as in other work routes under the UK’s points-based system. This means that, unless an exemption applies, the applicant must be able to prove their English language ability in reading, writing, speaking and listening to at least CEFR level B1 (the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). The applicant must show that they meet the English language requirement as set out in Appendix English Language under the Immigration Rules.

Under the financial requirement, unless the applicant is applying for permission to stay and has been lawfully in the UK for 12 months or longer on the date of application, they must either show funds of at least £1,270 or have their UK sponsor certify that they’ll maintain and accommodate their recruit up to the end of the first month of their employment. Where applicable, the applicant must show that they’ve held the required funds for 28 days and must show funds as specified in Appendix Finance of the Rules.

Table: Scale-up visa requirements

Overall, the applicant must be awarded a total of 70 points to be eligible for a Scale Up visa, including 50 points for sponsorship, and a job offer at an appropriate skill and salary level, plus 10 points each for both the English language and financial requirements.

In addition to the eligibility requirements, the standard suitability requirements will apply under the Scale Up route. This means that criminality, misconduct and breaches of immigration law will disqualify an applicant from being granted leave, except if periods of overstaying can be disregarded. Police registration will also be required for certain nationals.

2. Scale Up Visa Employer Requirements

The Scale Up Visa is designed to help rapidly growing UK businesses attract skilled workers from abroad. To qualify as a sponsor for the Scale Up Visa, employers must meet specific requirements set by the UK government. These requirements ensure that only genuinely high-growth companies can take advantage of this visa route. The key employer requirements are:

a. Valid Scale Up Sponsorship Licence

Employers must first apply for and obtain a Scale Up sponsorship licence from the UK Home Office. This licence allows the business to sponsor foreign workers under the Scale Up Visa. The process involves proving that the business is legitimate, meets eligibility criteria, and has the necessary systems in place to manage sponsored employees.

b. Growth Criteria

For a business to qualify as a sponsor for the Scale Up Visa, it must demonstrate that it is in a phase of significant growth. The UK government has set clear metrics to identify such businesses:

i. Growth Rate

The business must show an average annual growth rate of at least 20% over three years. This growth can be measured in terms of either employee headcount or turnover.

ii. Employee Numbers

At the start of the three years, the business must have had a minimum of 10 employees. This ensures that the business has a sufficient operational scale and is genuinely in a scaling phase.

iii. UK Presence

The business must be registered and operating in the UK. This visa is specifically designed to benefit UK-based businesses looking to expand further within the country.

c. Genuine Job Offer

The business must offer a genuine job to the prospective worker at the required skill level (graduate level or above).

Under the ‘genuineness’ requirement, UKVI will not award points for sponsorship if it has reasonable grounds to believe that the job role does not exist, is a sham, or has been mainly created so that the migrant worker can apply for entry clearance or permission to stay.

d. Compliance and Reporting

Employers must comply with all sponsorship duties, including reporting any changes in the worker’s employment status, such as if the worker leaves the job or if there are changes to their role. Employers must also keep records of the employment and ensure that the worker is being paid at the agreed salary level.

e. Duration of Employment

The employer must commit to employing the sponsored worker for at least six months. After this period, the worker can choose to change employers without needing a new visa, but during the first six months, they must remain employed by the sponsoring company.

Section E: Scale Up Visa Application Process

The Scale Up visa application process is intended to offer a fast-track route for high-growth companies looking to bring in top talent from around the world.

1. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for the Scale Up Visa

Table: Application Process Overview

Step 1: Sponsorship Licence Application (For Businesses)

The business first has to apply for a sponsorship license from the UK Home Office if they don’t already have one. This involves providing evidence of their eligibility, including growth metrics and proof of UK operations.

Once approved, the business will receive a sponsorship license number, which is necessary for issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the skilled worker.

Step 2: Assign Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

The business issues a CoS to the skilled worker. This certificate includes details about the job offer, salary, and other relevant information.

The CoS is electronically assigned to the skilled worker, who will need this to proceed with their visa application.

Step 3: Visa Application (For Workers)

The worker completes the online visa application form, providing details of the CoS and other personal information.

The worker must pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).

The worker books an appointment at a visa application centre to submit their biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).

Step 4: Decision and Arrival

The UK Home Office reviews the application, and a decision is typically made within three weeks for applications submitted from outside the UK or within eight weeks for those inside the UK.

If approved, the worker will receive a visa vignette (a sticker in their passport) or a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) upon arrival in the UK.

2. Required Documents

The application process requires the submission of various documents to verify eligibility:

Table: Scale Up Visa Application Supporting Documents

The business will need to provide documents covering the following:

a. Evidence of business growth (e.g., audited financial statements, payroll records showing employee growth).

b. Proof of UK registration and operation (e.g., business registration documents).

c. Sponsorship licence application documents.

The visa applicant will need to provide:

a. A valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed Scale Up business.

b. Proof of job offer, including the role description, salary details, and contract duration.

c. Evidence of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS test results or a degree taught in English).

d. Passport or travel document.

e. Tuberculosis test results (if applicable)

f. Proof of personal savings to support yourself (if the employer is not certifying your maintenance)

These lists are not exhaustive, and it will be important to ensure that the application comprises all necessary and relevant supporting documents to prove eligibility.

In particular, the sponsor licence application will require extensive documentation, as required under Appendix A and other relevant guidelines.

3. Scale Up Visa Processing Times

Scale Up visa applications submitted outside the UK typically take about three weeks to process, while applications submitted from within the UK may take up to eight weeks.

Priority services may be available for faster processing at an additional cost if the applicant is using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan their identity document.

The priority service allows for processing within five working days for an additional fee of £500, while super priority processing for a next working day decision costs an additional £1000 per application.

Table: Timeline for Scale Up Visa Process

4. Scale Up Visa Application Fees

The fee for applying for the Scale Up Visa is £880. This fee applies to each applicant, including any dependants (such as spouses or children) who are applying to join the main applicant in the UK.

In addition, Scale Up applicants will be liable to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 per year of leave for most applicants, or £776 per year for under 18s.

Depending on where you apply, there may be a fee for submitting your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at a visa application centre.

If you choose to use a priority service to expedite your application, additional fees will apply. The cost varies depending on the level of service and processing speed selected.

If any of your documents are not in English or Welsh, you may need to pay for certified translations.

While not a direct fee, applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves upon arrival in the UK (unless their employer will be supporting them, which must be confirmed on the CoS).

This typically requires showing at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying unless your employer certifies your maintenance.

5. Tips for a Successful Application

It is important to double-check all the information provided in the application, including personal details and the information on the Certificate of Sponsorship. Ensuring that everything is accurate helps to avoid potential issues or delays in processing.

Gathering all required documents in advance is advisable to prevent any last-minute rush or missing paperwork, which could lead to unnecessary delays in the application process.

For those facing time constraints, priority or super-priority services can be considered to expedite the processing time. These services are particularly useful when time is of the essence.

Maintaining regular communication with your sponsor throughout the process is also crucial. This ensures that all details are aligned and any issues that arise can be promptly addressed, helping to keep the application on track.

Section F: Extending a Scale-Up Visa

Initially, the Scale Up Visa is granted for two years, and after this period, the visa holder can apply to extend their stay in the UK. The extension can be for up to three years, provided that certain conditions are met.

The applicant must have been employed in a qualifying role with a Scale Up sponsor for at least six months during the initial visa period. After the initial six months, the worker can continue working for the same employer or switch to a different job without the need for a new Certificate of Sponsorship.

The applicant must also meet the relevant salary threshold, which is at least £36,300 per annum or the going rate for the occupation, whichever is higher.

The worker must have been continuously employed in the UK and have received regular pay from a UK employer during the initial visa period.

The applicant may also need to provide evidence of their earnings through payslips or other relevant documents to demonstrate that they meet the income requirements.

If the extension is granted, the worker can remain in the UK for an additional three years, and after five years of continuous residence, they may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Section G: Scale Up Visa Benefits

The Scale Up Visa offers significant advantages for both high-growth businesses and for non-UK workers.

1. Benefits For Businesses

The Scale Up Visa allows businesses to tap into a wider pool of skilled professionals from around the world, enabling them to fill crucial roles that are essential for their growth and innovation.

The requirements for sponsoring a Scale Up visa are tailored to high-growth companies, making the process more streamlined compared to other visa routes. Once the business is recognised as a Scale Up, it gains the flexibility to hire international talent with fewer bureaucratic hurdles.

While the Scale Up Visa is broadly available across sectors, certain high-growth industries may find it particularly beneficial:

a. Technology and Digital: Sectors such as software development, fintech, and artificial intelligence are likely to be significant users of the Scale Up Visa, as they often experience rapid growth and require highly specialised talent.

b. Healthcare and Life Sciences: With ongoing innovations and the need for skilled professionals in these areas, businesses in healthcare, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals may also benefit from the Scale Up Visa.

c. Green Energy and Sustainability: As the UK pushes towards its net-zero goals, businesses in renewable energy and sustainability sectors may use this visa to attract the expertise needed to scale their operations.

2. Benefits For Workers

The Scale Up Visa is particularly appealing to professionals looking to work in high-growth environments where they can contribute to and benefit from the rapid expansion of innovative companies.

After the initial six months with the sponsoring employer, the Scale Up Visa allows workers to switch jobs without needing to update their visa, offering greater career flexibility.

One of the most attractive features of the Scale Up Visa is its potential to lead to long-term residency in the UK. After completing five years on the Scale Up Visa, workers can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), provided they meet the requirements, such as continuous residence and meeting salary thresholds.

ILR allows individuals to live and work in the UK without any time restrictions. It is a significant step towards full citizenship, offering additional security and benefits.

To qualify for ILR, applicants must have spent five continuous years in the UK on a Scale Up Visa, demonstrate their ability to maintain a certain income level and pass the Life in the UK Test. After holding ILR for one year, individuals can apply for British citizenship, gaining full rights as a UK citizen.

Section H: Scale Up Visa Case Studies

The following case studies illustrate how the Scale Up visa can be used in practice to enable UK businesses to hire global talent:

Case Study 1: Tech Startup Expansion

A UK-based fintech startup, rapidly growing due to increased demand for its innovative financial solutions, used the Scale Up Visa to recruit a team of international software developers. By leveraging the visa’s flexibility, the company was able to attract highly skilled talent that was essential for meeting their product development milestones. Within a year, the startup doubled its customer base, significantly increased its revenue, and expanded its operations globally, attributing much of its success to the skilled workers brought in under the Scale Up Visa.

Case Study 2: Biotech Innovation

A biotechnology company focused on cutting-edge research in genetic therapies used the Scale Up Visa to hire specialised researchers and scientists from across the globe. These professionals brought unique expertise that was not readily available in the UK, helping the company achieve breakthroughs that attracted significant investment. The success of these projects not only advanced the company’s position in the market but also contributed to the UK’s reputation as a leader in life sciences.

Case Study 3: International Talent Thrives

An experienced data scientist from India applied for the Scale Up Visa after receiving an offer from a fast-growing UK AI company. The flexibility of the visa allowed her to explore different roles within the company, leading to her eventual promotion to a senior leadership position. After five years, she applied for ILR, and now, as a permanent resident, she continues to contribute to the company’s success and has become an integral part of the UK’s tech ecosystem.

Section I: Summary

The Scale Up visa UK is designed to assist high-growth businesses in the UK by enabling them to recruit talent from overseas so as to maintain and accelerate business growth, provided they meet specific criteria. The employer must have a sponsorship licence and demonstrate an average annual growth rate of at least 20% in either employment or turnover over three years. They must also have had at least ten employees at the start of this period.

For UK employers, key considerations include ensuring that the job offer meets the required skill level, typically at graduate level or above, and that the salary offered is at least £36,300 per annum or the going rate for the role, whichever is higher. Employers are also responsible for ensuring that the sponsored worker remains employed with them for a minimum of six months.

It is important to maintain compliance with all sponsorship duties, including reporting any changes in the worker’s employment status.

Section J: Need Assistance?

KD Immigration Experts specialises in UK business immigration. Our skilled team helps organisations meet their talent requirements through international recruitment. We offer guidance on how to apply for Scale-up Sponsor Licences, sponsor workers through the Scale-up route, and submit Scale-up visa applications. Contact us immediately for expert and reliable advice.

Section K: Scale Up Visa FAQs

What is the Scale Up Visa?

The Scale Up Visa is a UK immigration route designed to help high-growth businesses attract and employ skilled workers from outside the UK. It allows companies that are scaling rapidly to hire international talent with greater ease and flexibility.

Who is eligible to apply for the Scale Up Visa?

Both businesses and skilled workers must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify for the Scale Up Visa. Businesses must demonstrate a growth rate of at least 20% in employment or turnover over three years and have at least 10 employees at the start of that period. Skilled workers must have a valid job offer from a qualifying business, meet certain skill and salary requirements, and demonstrate English language proficiency.

What are the benefits of the Scale Up Visa for skilled workers?

The Scale Up Visa offers several benefits for skilled workers, including the opportunity to work in the UK for a high-growth company, the flexibility to change jobs after six months without needing to update the visa, and a pathway to long-term residency through Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

How long is the Scale Up Visa valid for?

The Scale Up Visa is initially granted for two years. After this period, workers can extend their visa for an additional three years. After five years of continuous residence in the UK, they may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

What documents are required to apply for the Scale Up Visa?

Applicants need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed Scale Up business, proof of a job offer meeting the required salary threshold, evidence of English language proficiency, a passport or travel document, and possibly a tuberculosis test result (depending on the country of origin). Businesses need to provide evidence of growth metrics and UK operations to qualify as sponsors.

How much does it cost to apply for the Scale Up Visa?

The application fee for the Scale Up Visa is £880. In addition, applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is usually £1,035 per year of leave.

Can I switch employers while on a Scale Up Visa?

One of the key benefits of the Scale Up Visa is that it allows workers to switch employers after six months without needing to apply for a new visa. This offers significant job flexibility compared to other visa routes.

What happens if my Scale Up Visa application is rejected?

If your application is rejected, you will be informed of the reasons, and you may have the option to appeal the decision or submit a new application with additional information. It is advisable to consult with an immigration advisor to understand your options and ensure that any future applications are successful.

Can my family members join me in the UK on a Scale Up Visa?

Workers on a Scale Up Visa can bring their dependents to the UK. Dependents include a spouse or partner and children under 18 years old. Each family member will need to apply for a dependent visa and meet the requirements.

How does the Scale Up Visa compare to other UK visas?

The Scale Up Visa offers more flexibility and is specifically designed for high-growth businesses and highly skilled workers. Unlike the Skilled Worker Visa, the Scale Up Visa allows workers to change jobs after six months without updating their visa. Compared to the Innovator Founder Visa, which is aimed at entrepreneurs, the Scale Up Visa is focused on employees and businesses that are already established and looking to scale.

Can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) with a Scale Up Visa?

After five years of continuous residence in the UK on a Scale Up Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). This status allows you to live and work in the UK without time restrictions and is a significant step towards full citizenship.

Section L: Glossary

Section M: Additional Resources

UK Government Scale Up Visa Guidance

https://www.gov.uk/scale-up-worker-visa

Provides detailed information on the eligibility requirements, application process, and conditions of the Scale Up Visa.

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) Official Website

https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration

Offers comprehensive resources on various UK visas, including the Scale Up Visa, and general immigration policies.

Home Office Sponsorship Management System

https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers

Guidance for UK employers on how to apply for a sponsorship licence and manage sponsored workers under different visa categories.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Information

https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/how-much-pay

Details the cost and payment procedures for the Immigration Health Surcharge required with most UK visa applications.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

https://www.gov.uk/english-language

Information on meeting English language requirements for visa applications, including accepted tests and qualifications.

Find a Visa Application Centre

https://www.gov.uk/find-a-visa-application-centre

Tool to locate visa application centres where biometric information can be submitted and other application services can be accessed.

Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain

\Provides guidelines on applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain after meeting the residency requirements.

UK Government Contact Page for Immigration Queries

https://www.gov.uk/contact-ukvi-inside-outside-uk

Contact details for inquiries and assistance related to UK immigration and nationality services.

Global Business Mobility Visa Guide

The Global Business Mobility visa is an umbrella category of five different types of UK work visas. These visas are designed for employees of overseas companies to undertake specific types of work or assignments in the UK.

As each of the Global Business Mobility visas has its own eligibility and application requirements, the GBM rules can quickly become complex. However, with professional advice, these routes can form a valuable part of an organisation’s talent recruitment and mobility programme and UK-based development strategies.

In this guide, we explain what the Global Business Mobility visa is, together with the eligibility requirements and length of stay under each subcategory. We also set out the sponsorship rules for overseas employers to sponsor workers for a GBM visa.

Section A: What is the Global Business Mobility Visa?

The Global Business Mobility visa is a combined category of five sponsored work routes for workers from overseas companies to work in the UK temporarily. When introduced, the Global Business Mobility visa reformed and expanded on previous UK work and business visas, to allow non-UK organisations to pursue UK-based opportunities by enabling overseas companies to deploy certain types of workers to carry out specific types of work.

The five visas under the Global Business Mobility route are:

Each visa has its requirements:

1. Senior or Specialist Worker Visa

The Senior or Specialist Worker route is for senior managers and specialist employees being assigned to a UK business that’s linked to their employer overseas and who wish to undertake a temporary assignment in the UK. This route replaced the Intra-Company Transfer route in April 2022.

To be eligible for this specific route, an applicant must:

a. be working for the sponsor group and have worked for that group outside the UK for a cumulative period of at least 12 months, unless they’ll be working in the UK as a high earner being paid a gross salary of £73,900 per year or more

b. have been issued a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the job they’re proposing to do, issued by an employer that’s authorised by the UK Home Office to sponsor a Senior or Specialist Worker and who has paid any required Immigration Skills Charge in full

c. have sponsorship for an eligible job at or above an appropriate minimum skill level, with an annual salary of at least £48,500 per year, or the relevant going rate for the role – whichever is higher.

If the applicant is successful, permission will be granted for either 5 years after the start date of the job set out in the Certificate of Sponsorship; 14 days after the end date of this job; or the date at which the applicant will have had cumulative permission on the Global Business Mobility and the Intra-Company routes totalling 5 years in any 6 years, or 9 years in any 10 years if applying as a high earner — whichever is the shortest.

2. Graduate Trainee Visa

The Graduate Trainee route is for overseas workers on a graduate training course leading to either a senior management or specialist position and required by their employer to do a UK work placement. This route replaced the Intra-Company Graduate Trainee route.

To be eligible for this specific route, an applicant must:

a. be currently working for the sponsor group at the time of the application and have worked for that group outside the UK for a continuous period of at least 3 months before the date of their application.

b. have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the job they’re proposing to do, issued by an employer that’s authorised by the UK Home Office to sponsor a Graduate Trainee.

c. have sponsorship for an eligible job at or above an appropriate minimum skill level, with a salary of at least £25,410 per year, or the ‘going rate’ for that job, whichever is higher, with clearly defined progression toward a managerial or specialist role within the sponsor organisation as part of a structured graduate training programme.

If successful, permission will be granted for either 1 year after the start date of the job set out in the Certificate of Sponsorship; 14 days after the end date of this job; or the date at which the applicant will have had cumulative permission on the Global Business Mobility and the Intra-Company routes totalling 5 years in any 6-year period — whichever is the shortest.

3. UK Expansion Worker Visa

The UK Expansion Worker route is for overseas workers looking to undertake temporary assignments in the UK, where the worker is either a senior manager or specialist employee being assigned to the UK to assist with the expansion of the business. This route replaced the Representative of an Overseas Business route and can only be used when the business hasn’t yet begun trading in the UK. If the business already has an established UK presence, workers should apply under the Senior or Specialist Worker route instead.

To be eligible for this specific route, an applicant must:

a. works for the sponsor group and have worked for that group outside the UK for at least 12 months, unless they’ll be working in the UK as a high earner, or are an Australian national working for an Australian business, or are a Japanese national seeking to establish a UK branch or subsidiary under the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.

b. have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the job they’re proposing to do, issued by an employer that’s authorised by the UK Home Office to sponsor a UK Expansion Worker.

c. have sponsorship for an eligible job at or above an appropriate minimum skill level, with a salary of at least £48,500 per year, or the ‘going rate’ for that job, whichever is higher.

If successful, permission will be granted for either 1 year after the start date of the job set out in the Certificate of Sponsorship; 14 days after the end date of this job; the date at which the applicant will have had continuous permission as a UK Expansion Worker totalling 2 years; or the date the applicant will have had cumulative permission on the Global Business Mobility routes totalling 5 years in any 6 years — whichever is the shortest.

4. Service Supplier Visa

The Service Supplier route is for contractual service suppliers employed by overseas service providers, or self-employed independent professionals based overseas, looking to undertake temporary assignments in the UK to provide services covered by a UK international trade agreement. This route replaced the contractual service supplier and independent professional provisions under the Temporary Work – International Agreement route.

To be eligible for this specific route, an applicant must:

a. be employed by an overseas company or be a self-employed professional based outside the UK, and have at least 12 months’ relevant experience with your employer or in their profession.

b. only do work in the UK as part of a contract that falls under a recognised international trade agreement, and the UK business receiving the services must be an approved sponsor.

c. have been assigned a valid Certificate of Sponsorship detailing their role, and either be doing an eligible job or show that they’re suitably qualified and experienced for the work.

If successful, permission will be granted for either 14 days after the end date of the job set out in the Certificate of Sponsorship; the date at which the applicant will have had cumulative permission on the Global Business Mobility and Intra-Company routes totalling 5 years in any 6 years; or the maximum single assignment period for the applicant in question, being either 6 or 12 months — whichever is the shortest.

5. Secondment Worker Visa

The Secondment Worker route is for overseas workers looking to undertake temporary assignments in the UK, where the worker is being seconded to the UK as part of a high value contract or investment by their overseas employer.

To be eligible for this specific route, an applicant must:

a. works for an overseas business that has a Home Office registered contract with their UK sponsor and have worked for that business outside the UK for a cumulative period of at least 12 months

b. have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the job they’re proposing to do, issued by an employer that’s authorised by the UK Home Office to sponsor a Secondment Worker, and who has a Home Office registered contract with an overseas business on which the applicant will work

c. have sponsorship for an eligible job at or above an appropriate minimum skill level.

If successful, permission will be granted for either 1 year after the start date of the job set out in the Certificate of Sponsorship; 14 days after the end date of this job; the date at which the applicant will have had continuous permission as a Secondment Worker totalling 2 years; or the date the applicant will have had cumulative permission on the Global Business Mobility and Intra-Company routes totalling 5 years in any 6 years — whichever is the shortest.

Section B: Applying for a Global Business Mobility Visa

Applying for a Global Business Mobility visa involves several steps. First, you’ll need to identify which visa category is most suitable for your circumstances and ensure that you meet the relevant visa conditions. This depends on your role within the company and the purpose of your stay in the UK. Once you have identified the correct visa category, you will need to gather the necessary documents. This typically includes a valid passport, a completed application form, proof of financial support, and a job offer from a UK-based company, along with other evidence specific to the visa you are applying for.

The next step is to submit your application and pay the visa fee. You can usually do this online or through a visa application centre. It is important to ensure that all information provided is accurate and complete, as any errors or omissions could lead to delays or refusal of your application.

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for a decision. Processing times can vary, so it is advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date. If your application is successful, you will be notified of the decision and issued a visa.

1. Global Business Mobility Application Fees

1. Global Business Mobility Visa Processing Times

The standard processing time for Global Business Mobility (GBM) visas is 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK, or 8 weeks for applications made in the UK. However, it is important to understand that this is a target, and actual processing times can vary.

To expedite the visa application process, the UK government offers priority services. The priority service typically reduces processing times to five working days, while the Super Priority Service provides the fastest processing time, usually by the end of the next working day. Additional fees apply for these options; priority processing costs an additional £500, while super priority is £1000 in addition to the visa application charge. The availability of priority services can change, however, and you will be advised when you apply if you can use these services.

Processing times for UK visas can vary due to a range of factors, including the volume and complexity of applications. Applicants should take advice or consult the official UK government website for the most accurate and up-to-date information before applying.

Many factors can influence the processing time of your GBM visa application. The completeness of the application is crucial; ensure that all required documents are submitted accurately. Timely submission of biometric data can also expedite the process. If your application requires further scrutiny, it may take longer to process. Variations in the workload at UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) can also impact processing times.

Section C: Extending a Global Business Mobility Visa

While the Global Business Mobility visa is designed for overseas workers to undertake temporary work assignments in the UK, some of the GBM visas allow the holder to apply to extend their visa, subject to the visa’s specific conditions. Under the current rules, only the Graduate Trainee visa prohibits extensions. This means that Service Supplier, Senior or Specialist Workers, Expansion Workers and Secondment Workers may be able to extend their visa, provided the continue to meet the visa eligibility requirements and that the holder does not exceed the relevant visa maximum period of stay.

To remain in the UK for longer than the initial period of stay, the visa holder may look to switch to a different immigration category, depending on their circumstances could include a family visa or a different work visa. Take professional advice on your options.

Section D: Dependants

Applicants may be accompanied or joined by a partner and any dependent children under a Global Business Mobility visa. However, to be eligible to come to the UK under this route, the spouse or partner of the primary visa holder will need to satisfy various eligibility requirements, including a relationship and financial requirement. Any child applicant will also need to satisfy additional age and care requirements.

Check the conditions of the GBM visa you will be applying under for the specific requirements to apply as a GBM visa dependant.

Section E: Sponsoring a Global Business Mobility Visa Worker

To obtain any one of the new Global Business Mobility visas, a migrant worker will need to be sponsored by a Home Office approved licence-holder, authorised to sponsor the specific category of worker in question. These categories include senior or specialist workers, graduate trainees, UK expansion workers, service suppliers and secondment workers.

Only once the sponsor has obtained a licence from the UK Home Office for the relevant GBM route, can they then issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to confirm that the relevant visa conditions are met, and to enable the migrant worker to apply for a visa and, provided that individual is successfully granted entry clearance or leave to remain as a GBM worker, to undertake the job role as set out in their CoS.

Various route-specific eligibility requirements must be met before a migrant worker will be granted a GBM visa, although sponsorship is required under all five routes. This includes the UK expansion worker route, which replaces the sole representative provisions of the previously unsponsored representative of an overseas business route.

Likewise, the senior and specialist worker visa and the graduate trainee visa replace the intra-company transfer (ICT) routes, whilst the service supplier route replaces the provisions for independent professionals and contractual service suppliers on the international agreement route. In contrast, the secondment worker route is a new route to enable overseas workers to be seconded to the UK temporarily as part of a high-value contract or investment.

1. Global Business Mobility Visa Sponsor Requirements

If your organisation doesn’t already have a sponsor licence, you will need to apply for Home Office approval before you can sponsor a Global Business Mobility visa worker. To be eligible for a GBM sponsor licence, you must meet various route-specific requirements, including:

a. you must be able to offer genuine employment in the UK that meets the relevant skill and any salary requirements of the GBM route in question;

b. have a qualifying overseas business link, although the nature of this link depends on the route, for example, to sponsor a senior or specialist worker, the UK sponsor and overseas business must be linked by common ownership or control, whilst for a secondment worker licence you must have an eligible overseas contract for either goods or investment worth no less than £10 million per year or £50 million in total;

c. if applying on the UK expansion worker route, you must also meet the additional requirements for that route. This means that you must be able to show via a UK ‘footprint’ and credible plans, that you intend and are capable of establishing a new UK branch or wholly-owned subsidiary within a period of two years, and have an established overseas trading presence, which has been active and trading for at least three years.

In addition to meeting any route-specific requirements for the category of worker you are looking to sponsor, you must also be able to establish that you:

a. are a genuine organisation that’s operating lawfully in the UK, although you must not have an existing active trading presence in the UK if applying on the UK expansion worker route;

b. are honest, dependable, reliable, and haven’t behaved in a way that is not conducive to the public good, where the Home Office will have regard to the key personnel named in your application and any person involved in the day-to-day running of the business;

c. are capable of carrying out all your sponsor duties, where the Home Office will have regard to your current human resources and recruitment practices, and may conduct a site visit or digital audit.

If you don’t meet all of the specific and general requirements, your application for a Global Business Mobility visa sponsor licence will be refused. You may also not be eligible to reapply for at least six months, although, in certain circumstances, this cooling-off period can be longer.

Section F: Summary

In summary, the term “Global Business Mobility Visa” does not refer to a single visa, but rather serves as an umbrella term encompassing various specialist routes tailored for specific types of workers and temporary work assignments for overseas employers. Each subcategory – the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa, Graduate Trainee Visa, UK Expansion Worker Visa, Secondment Worker Visa, and Service Supplier Visa – caters to different professional needs and business scenarios. Given the complex eligibility criteria and procedural requirements associated with these visas, it is highly recommended to seek professional advice. This can help to avoid potential issues, delays, or negative implications for business plans and operations.

Section G: Need Assistance?

KD Immigration Experts are UK business immigration specialists. We assist employers with every aspect of corporate immigration to help meet their talent needs through international recruitment and global mobility. By consulting with our experienced immigration professionals early in the process, both prospective and existing sponsors can significantly improve their chances of success with Home Office applications.

For expert guidance tailored to your organisation’s needs, get in touch with us today.

Section H: Global Business Mobility Visa FAQs

What is a Global Business Mobility visa?

The Global Business Mobility visa is an umbrella term for five different types of visas for employees of overseas companies who need to work in the UK for a specific purpose. Each of the visas has its own specific rules, and eligibility and application requirements.

Do I need a sponsor licence for the Global Business Mobility visa?

Employers must have an appropriate type of sponsor licence to sponsor workers for one of the Global Business Mobility visas.

How long can I stay in the UK on a Global Business Mobility visa?

The length of stay depends on the specific visa category you apply for. Some visas are for short-term assignments, while others allow for longer stays.

Can I bring my family with me on a Global Business Mobility visa?

In most cases, you can bring your family members to the UK with you on a Global Business Mobility visa, provided they apply for their visas as dependants.

Can I switch from one Global Business Mobility visa to another?

It might be possible to switch between some Global Business Mobility visa categories, but this depends on your specific circumstances. Take professional immigration advice on your situation.

Do I need a job offer to apply for a Global Business Mobility visa?

The specific requirements vary depending on the visa type, but most Global Business Mobility visa categories require a job offer from a UK-based company.