UK Global Talent Visa
The UK Global Talent visa is a pathway for highly skilled individuals in fields like science, technology, arts, and culture to live and work in the UK. Introduced in 2020 to replace the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa, the Global Talent visa allows talented and promising individuals to gain a visa based on endorsement in their field of expertise.
Eligibility and Endorsements
To qualify, applicants must:
Work in a qualifying field.
Obtain endorsement as:
Exceptional Talent: Recognized leaders in their field.
Exceptional Promise: Emerging leaders.
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Endorsed Funder.
Endorsements come from designated bodies, each with criteria applicants must meet. If applying as a digital technology specialist, the endorsement process is managed by Tech Nation. The endorsement decision typically takes up to 8 weeks.
Application Process
The application involves two stages:
Endorsement Application: Apply online and submit evidence, including support from experts.
Visa Application: Once endorsed, apply for the visa within 3 months of receiving the endorsement.
Visa Duration and Extensions
Applicants can request a visa for 1 to 5 years and may extend it indefinitely. Extensions follow the same terms, with each period lasting between 1–5 years.
Path to Settlement
Global Talent visa holders may be eligible for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) based on their category:
Exceptional Talent (in science or other fields): After 3 years.
Exceptional Promise (in arts, culture, or digital tech): After 5 years.
Other eligible categories of time spent in the UK may count toward this period.
Rights and Restrictions
With a Global Talent visa, you can:
Work in the UK in any capacity (employed, self-employed, or as a director).
Change jobs without reapplying.
Engage in voluntary work.
Bring dependents (partners and children under 18).
You cannot:
Access public funds.
Work as a doctor or dentist in training.
Work as a professional sportsperson or coach.
Processing Times
Visa application: Submit up to 3 months before planned travel.
Decision timeframe: Typically, within 3 weeks after biometrics enrollment, with expedited options available in some locations for an extra fee.
The Global Talent visa is a flexible pathway for skilled individuals aiming to work and settle in the UK, particularly beneficial for those wishing to contribute their expertise to the UK's scientific, cultural, and tech landscapes.
The Global Talent visa provides a unique opportunity for skilled individuals to work flexibly in the UK while being eligible for long-term residency options.
Would you like more information on the application process or specific requirements? Please contact us or send an email.