In today’s competitive global business environment, expanding operations to new countries like the United Kingdom is a strategic move for many companies. The UK Global Business Mobility visas, launched in April 2022, offer exciting opportunities for overseas businesses to establish a presence in the UK. This comprehensive guide explores these visas and how they can benefit your business.
What Are the UK Global Business Mobility Visas?
These visas comprise five distinct categories designed to support specific business activities in the UK, including transferring staff, setting up branches, and fulfilling contracts. They replace previous categories like the Intra-Company Transfer and Sole Representative visas.
Senior or Specialist Worker Visa
Eligibility for this visa requires the following:
- A valid certificate of sponsorship from an employer that is a registered sponsor with the Home Office.
- A minimum of 12 months’ employment with the company outside the UK, unless the applicant earns more than £73,900 per year.
- Engagement in a job that is eligible under the correct occupation code.
- A minimum annual salary of £42,800 or the ‘going rate’ for the job, whichever is higher.
Applicants must also meet certain genuineness criteria, proving their intent to adhere to the conditions of the role without seeking additional employment in the UK. This visa permits a stay of up to 5 years or the duration stated on the certificate of sponsorship plus an additional 14 days, whichever is less. The maximum permitted duration of stay in the UK under this visa varies depending on the applicant’s income level.
Graduate Trainee Visa
Eligibility criteria for this visa include:
- Possession of a valid certificate of sponsorship from a registered sponsor authorized by the Home Office.
- A minimum of 3 months work experience with an employer outside the UK.
- Engagement in an eligible job linked to a structured graduate training program.
- A minimum annual salary of £24,220.
The Graduate Trainee visa permits a stay of 12 months or the duration specified on the certificate of sponsorship, plus an additional 14 days, whichever is shorter.
UK Expansion Worker Visa
The UK Expansion Worker visa empowers overseas business owners to establish new UK-based branches of their companies. Eligibility requirements for this visa encompass:
- Possession of a valid certificate of sponsorship from a registered sponsor authorized by the Home Office.
- A minimum of 12 months’ work experience with the employer outside the UK, unless earning £73,900 or more, or working for a Japanese company expanding to the UK.
- Engagement in an eligible job with the appropriate occupation code.
Applicants must also demonstrate genuineness by committing to undertake their proposed role exclusively while in the UK. The UK Expansion Worker visa allows a stay of 12 months or the duration specified on the certificate of sponsorship, plus an
Secondment Worker Visa
The Secondment Worker Visa is for individuals who need to work in the UK for their overseas employer under a high-value contract with a UK-based organization. Here are the eligibility criteria for this visa:
- Hold a valid certificate of sponsorship from a UK-based organization that is a registered sponsor with the Home Office.
- Have at least 12 months of work experience with an employer outside the UK.
- Be engaged in a job that fits the appropriate occupation code and is associated with a contract valued at over £50 million.
It is possible to extend the visa, but the total maximum duration of stay is 2 years. This total includes any time spent under other Global Business Mobility visas and Intra-Company Transfer visas.
Service Supplier Visa
The Service Supplier visa is for employees of overseas companies or self-employed professionals providing services covered by a UK international trade agreement. To qualify for this visa, applicants must:
- Possess a valid certificate of sponsorship from a UK-based organization, registered as a sponsor authorized by the Home Office.
- Be an employee of an overseas business or a self-employed service provider based overseas, offering services under a contract governed by a valid international trade agreement.
- Have a minimum of 12 months’ work experience with the employer outside the UK, or possess 12 months’ professional experience if self-employed.
- Work in an eligible job with an appropriate occupation code or demonstrate relevant qualifications or experience.
The UK Service Supplier visa offers stays of 6 months or 12 months, or the duration specified on the certificate of sponsorship, plus an additional 14 days, whichever is shorter.
How to Apply for a UK Global Business Mobility Visa
Applying for a UK Global Business Mobility visa is quite simple and is done online. Here’s how you can apply:
- Go to the official visa application website.
- Fill out the application form.
- Upload necessary documents, such as your certificate of sponsorship, information about your employer, and evidence of your work experience if needed.
- Verify your identity either at a visa application center, where they will collect your biometrics, or use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your identity documents.
In summary, UK Global Business Mobility visas offer great opportunities for international businesses looking to grow in the UK. As global business changes, seizing the right opportunities is crucial for success. UK Global Business Mobility visas are your chance to expand, innovate, and succeed in the UK market. Don’t miss this opportunity to excel in the UK.