Are you an overseas business looking to set up your first branch or subsidiary in the United Kingdom? The UK Expansion Worker Visa may be the key to unlocking this exciting opportunity. As part of the UK’s Global Business Mobility (GBM) program, this visa route aims to facilitate economic growth and trade in the post-Brexit era. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of the UK Expansion Worker Visa, covering eligibility requirements, sponsor obligations, the application process, costs, and more.
Who is Eligible for the UK Expansion Worker Visa?
To qualify for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, applicants must meet several key criteria. First and foremost, they must be at least 18 years old and already employed by a linked overseas business. The applicant must have worked for this business for a prescribed minimum period, unless they fall within an exception.
It’s important to note that the overseas organization must be establishing its first UK branch or wholly-owned subsidiary. The Expansion Worker route is specifically designed for businesses that haven’t yet begun trading in the UK.
Sponsor Requirements for the UK Expansion Worker Visa
For an overseas business to sponsor an Expansion Worker, it must meet certain obligations. The UK branch or subsidiary must be linked to an established overseas company. Additionally, the business cannot have already started trading in the UK, as this visa route is intended for initial expansion efforts.
Expanding Your Business to the UK: Visa Requirements Explained
To secure the UK Expansion Worker Visa, applicants need to score a total of 60 points based on specific skill and salary criteria. They must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for an eligible job role, with an annual salary of at least £45,800 or the going rate for that position, whichever is higher.
The Application Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
When applying for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, candidates must complete an online application using their unique CoS reference number. Applications can be submitted up to three months before the intended start date of employment in the UK, as stated on their sponsorship certificate.
Costs to Consider for the UK Expansion Worker Visa
Businesses and applicants should be aware of the various costs associated with the UK Expansion Worker Visa. The applicant is responsible for paying a £259 application fee and an annual Immigration Health Surcharge of £624. On top of that, the business must factor in the expenses related to obtaining a sponsorship license and issuing each CoS.
Duration and Settlement Prospects
The UK Expansion Worker Visa is granted for 12 months from the job start date on the sponsorship certificate, or 14 days after the job end date, whichever comes first. The maximum stay allowed under this visa route is two years.
It’s crucial to understand that the Expansion Worker Visa does not provide a direct path to settlement in the UK. However, senior or specialist employees may have the option to apply for a different visa category, such as the Skilled Worker route, which could potentially lead to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) if they meet the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion: Expanding Your Horizons with the UK Expansion Worker Visa
The UK Expansion Worker Visa presents an exciting opportunity for overseas businesses to establish a presence in the United Kingdom. By understanding the eligibility requirements, sponsor obligations, application process, and associated costs, companies can make informed decisions about their expansion plans.
While this visa route may not offer a direct path to settlement, it can serve as a stepping stone for businesses and their key employees to explore other immigration options in the future. With careful planning and guidance from qualified immigration professionals such as Harvey Law Group, the UK Expansion Worker Visa can open doors to new markets, talent pools, and growth opportunities in the dynamic post-Brexit landscape.
