If you’re a business owner or entrepreneur looking to expand your business into the UK, the UK Expansion Worker Visa (part of the Global Business Mobility scheme) could be your key to success. This visa helps international businesses send employees to the UK to manage or set up new branches. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the UK Expansion Worker Visa in 2024, including eligibility, the application process, recent changes to immigration laws, and how to adapt your business to the new rules.
What is the UK Expansion Worker Visa?
The UK Expansion Worker Visa allows established overseas businesses to send key workers to the UK to set up or manage new branches, subsidiaries, or other business operations. This visa is part of the broader Global Business Mobility (GBM) scheme.
Who Qualifies for the UK Expansion Worker Visa?
To qualify for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, you must meet the following requirements:
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Your employer must provide a sponsorship certificate.
- Work Experience: You must have worked for your employer outside the UK for at least 12 months. There are exceptions for those with a salary over £73,900 or those from Japan or Australia working for companies expanding to the UK.
- Job Eligibility: Your job must be on the UK’s eligible occupation list.
- Salary Requirement: You need to earn at least £48,500 per year or the going rate for your job (whichever is higher).
How to Apply for the UK Expansion Worker Visa
The application process for this visa involves several steps:
- Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship: Your employer must first have a sponsor license to issue this certificate.
- Gather Required Documents: These include proof of identity, the sponsorship certificate, and your plans to expand your business to the UK.
- Complete the Application: Submit your visa application form online.
- Pay the Application Fee: Pay the required fee for processing your visa application.
- Identity Check: Attend a visa application center or use the mobile app to verify your identity.
- Wait for a Decision: Most applications made outside the UK are processed within 3 weeks.
Key Changes in UK Immigration Law (Effective April 4, 2024)
In 2024, several important changes to UK immigration laws will impact entrepreneurs and businesses. These include:
- Higher Salary Thresholds for Skilled Worker Visas: The minimum salary for a Skilled Worker visa has increased from £26,200 to £38,700 per year.
- New entrant discounts remain for younger workers and recent graduates, allowing them to qualify for a salary as low as £30,960.
- Immigration Salary List: A new salary list has been introduced, which allows certain occupations to qualify for a reduced salary threshold (80% of the usual minimum salary).
- Changes to Occupation Codes: The Standard Occupation Codes (SOC) have been updated to better reflect current job market needs. This means that some job roles may no longer be eligible for the Skilled Worker visa.
- Supplementary Employment Permissions: Skilled Worker visa holders can now take on additional work as long as it meets the new salary criteria and doesn’t exceed 20 hours per week.
- Changes to the GBM Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: The salary threshold for this visa has increased from £45,800 to £48,500.
How to Adapt to the UK’s Tougher Immigration Climate
The UK has become stricter about immigration, especially when it comes to visa requirements and enforcement. To avoid issues, business owners need to stay informed about immigration rule changes. Here’s how:
- Stay Updated: Make sure your business is complying with the latest rules, including salary thresholds and occupation codes.
- Check Sponsorship Compliance: If you sponsor employees for visas, conduct audits to ensure you meet the Home Office’s requirements.
- Work with Experts: Collaborate with UK immigration specialists, like Law and Visas, who can help you navigate new rules and avoid penalties.
What’s Next for UK Immigration in 2024?
With a potential change in government in July 2024, the UK’s immigration policies may shift. Labour, the expected new ruling party, plans to focus on increasing skills training within the UK, rather than relying on overseas talent. However, it is unlikely that immigration rules will become significantly more lenient. Businesses should prepare for continued strict immigration controls and adapt their hiring strategies accordingly.
What Should Employers Do Now?
To ensure your business is prepared for changes in immigration laws, take the following steps:
- Check Eligibility: Ensure the roles you wish to sponsor are still on the eligible occupation list.
- Conduct a Mock Audit: Have an immigration solicitor or expert check your business’s compliance with UK visa rules.
- Train Your HR Team: Make sure your HR and legal teams understand the latest immigration regulations and compliance requirements.
- Develop Hiring Strategies: Work with immigration experts to plan how you will hire and retain international talent.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on UK immigration laws to stay ahead of any further changes.
Navigating the UK immigration system can be tricky, especially with new rules in 2024. The UK Expansion Worker Visa offers great opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses to expand into the UK market. By understanding these changes and working with a trusted immigration partner like Law and Visas, you can ensure your business stays compliant and takes full advantage of the UK’s business opportunities.
