UK Expansion Worker Visa: A Comprehensive Guide

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The UK Expansion Worker visa, part of the Global Business Mobility routes, enables senior managers and specialist employees to establish a branch of their overseas business in the UK. This visa is tailored for businesses that have yet to commence trading in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the UK Expansion Worker visa, applicants must:
  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Obtain a valid CoS from their employer, detailing the job role and duration.
  • Employment History: Have worked for the sponsoring employer outside the UK.
  • Job Role: Occupy a position listed among the eligible occupations.
  • Salary Threshold: Receive a minimum annual salary of £48,500 or the going rate for the specific occupation, whichever is higher.

Duration of Stay

The visa permits a stay of up to 12 months after the job’s start date as indicated on the CoS or the duration specified on the CoS plus 14 days, whichever is shorter. Extensions are possible for an additional 12 months, capping the maximum stay at 2 years.

Application Process

  1. Online Application: Submit your application through the official UK government portal.
  2. Identity Verification: Depending on your nationality and passport type, either use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or visit a visa application centre for biometric data collection.
  3. Documentation: Provide necessary documents, including your CoS reference number, proof of personal savings, and evidence of your relationship with dependants, if applicable.

Financial Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient personal savings to support themselves upon arrival in the UK. Additionally, the application fee and healthcare surcharge are mandatory financial obligations.

Processing Time

Decisions are typically made within 3 weeks for applicants outside the UK and 8 weeks for those within. Expedited processing may be available for an additional fee.

Family Members

Eligible partners and children can apply as dependants to join or remain with the primary visa holder in the UK.

Restrictions

Holders of the UK Expansion Worker visa cannot access public funds, change jobs without updating their visa, undertake secondary employment, or apply for indefinite leave to remain.

For personalised guidance and assistance with your application, consider consulting with legal experts specialising in UK immigration law.

FAQs

What is the UK Expansion Worker Visa?

The UK Expansion Worker Visa is designed for overseas businesses looking to expand into the UK. It allows senior or specialist employees to come to the UK and set up a branch or subsidiary of their existing business.

Who is eligible to apply for UK Expansion Worker Visa?

To be eligible, the applicant must:

  • Be currently working for an overseas business,

  • Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed UK sponsor,

  • Have worked for the business for at least 12 months (in most cases),

  • Be filling a genuine, eligible senior or specialist role.

How long does the visa last, and can it be extended?

The visa is granted for up to 12 months initially, and can be extended once, allowing a total stay of up to 2 years. This route does not lead directly to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Can family members come with me to the UK?

Yes, your partner and dependent children can apply to join you. They must meet financial and eligibility requirements. If approved, they’ll be granted permission to stay in the UK for the same duration as your visa.

Want to know more or have a chat? Contact an expert today to see if you’re eligible:

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