The UK Expansion Worker Visa is a new immigration route introduced in April 2022 as part of a series of reforms to the UK’s immigration system. This visa replaces the previous Sole Representative Visa and allows senior staff and specialists to come to the UK to set up a new branch or subsidiary for their overseas employer.
In fact, the UK Expansion Worker Visa provides a route for skilled professionals to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years while they establish a UK presence for their company. Moreover, after 2 years in the UK, visa holders may be able to switch to other long-term UK visas or apply for permanent settlement.
What is the eligibility for the Expansion Worker Visa?
To be eligible for the Expansion Worker Visa, applicants must have a valid work offer from the overseas employer they will be representing. Consequently, they cannot be majority shareholders in the overseas company. Additionally, applicants must also meet certain English language and salary requirements. The overseas employer must be an active, trading business in the process of setting up operations in the UK.
How is the visa sponsored?
The visa is sponsored by the employer and applicants must provide a certificate of sponsorship and proof they have worked for the overseas company for at least 12 months. Also, applicants may be allowed to bring dependents, who can also work or study in the UK.
The initial visa is granted for up to 1 year. It can then be extended up to 2 years from the initial start date. After that, the worker may be eligible to switch to other UK visas like the Skilled Worker Visa or Innovator Visa. Those on the route to permanent settlement may also be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain after 6 years in the UK.
What opportunities does the Expansion Worker Visa provide?
The UK Expansion Worker Visa provides an opportunity for overseas businesses to tap into the UK’s skilled worker pool as they expand globally. For skilled professionals, it offers a path to live and work in the UK long-term.
In summary, with strong employment prospects, British culture, and high quality of life, the UK remains an attractive destination for global talent to relocate.
For more information:
Taylor Hampton Solicitors offers advice on the Expansion Visa route. For more information contact our Head of Immigration Leena Chouhan on +44 207 427 5972
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