The Ultimate UK Work Visa Handbook

There are many different visas available for individuals seeking to work in the UK.

It is crucial to understand what "work" entails within UK immigration law. The definition of work encompasses a broad range of activities, including employment, self-employment, voluntary work, and even certain types of training. Individuals must familiarise themselves with these definitions to ensure compliance with immigration regulations.

The UK offers a wide range of visas tailored to different circumstances and purposes. These visas provide opportunities for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, investors, students, and individuals with exceptional talent to live and work in the UK.

Skilled workers can come and work in the UK for a specific period by obtaining a Skilled Worker visa. This requires a job offer from a UK employer who will sponsor their application. The visa also offers the possibility of settling in the country.

Health and Care Worker visa - Embrace your passion for healthcare and make a difference in the UK's thriving medical sector.

There are visas you can apply for without a job offer.

Discover your potential with various visa options that allow you to explore career opportunities without the need for a job offer.

British National (Overseas) visa - If you hold British National (Overseas) status, unlock your chance to live and work in the UK.

Graduate visa - Kickstart your career journey with a visa designed specifically for recent graduates, providing you with the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the UK.

Youth Mobility Scheme visa - Open the door to an unforgettable adventure as you explore the UK and gain valuable work experience through this visa program tailored for young individuals.

India Young Professionals Scheme visa - Take your skills to the next level with this visa, specially designed for young professionals from India, offering a unique opportunity to work and grow in the UK.

Global Talent visa - Showcase your exceptional talent and expertise in the fields of science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology, or arts and culture, and secure a pathway to success in the UK.

UK Ancestry visa - Connect with your British roots and unlock the opportunity to live and work in the UK based on your ancestral ties.

High Potential Individual (HPI) visa - If you possess exceptional skills, knowledge, and experience, this visa is your gateway to the UK's thriving business and innovation landscape.

Work in the UK for your overseas employer.

Expand your horizons without leaving your current employer as you explore the possibilities of working in the UK through this visa category.

Senior or Specialist Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) - Utilize your expertise and experience as a senior or specialist worker to contribute to the UK's global business landscape.

Overseas Domestic Worker visa - Join the ranks of skilled domestic workers and provide valuable services to households in the UK.

Graduate Trainee visa (Global Business Mobility) - Enhance your professional skills through a tailored training program with this visa, designed for graduates seeking international exposure.

Secondment Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) - Embark on a temporary work assignment in the UK through this visa category, designed for individuals seconded to work for a UK-based company.

Service Supplier visa (Global Business Mobility) - If you provide services as an employee of an overseas company, this visa allows you to work in the UK temporarily.

UK Expansion Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) - Contribute to the growth and expansion of your overseas business by joining their UK operations through this visa category.

Representative of an Overseas Business visa - Establish a presence for your overseas company in the UK and seize the opportunity to gain experience in this vibrant market.

Service providers from Switzerland visa - If you are a Swiss citizen providing services in the UK, this visa allows you to continue doing so.

Experience the UK's dynamic work environment through various temporary work visas

Seasonal Worker visa (Temporary Work) - Join the UK's vibrant agricultural industry and contribute to seasonal work opportunities.

Government Authorised Exchange visa (Temporary Work) - Participate in government-approved exchange programs and gain valuable skills and experiences through this visa category.

Creative Worker visa (Temporary Work) - Unleash your creative potential in the UK's vibrant arts and entertainment industry with this visa.

Religious Worker visa (Temporary Work) - Pursue your passion for religious service and contribute to the UK's diverse religious communities.

Charity Worker visa (Temporary Work) - Make a difference in the lives of others as you work for charitable organizations in the UK through this visa category.

International Agreement visa (Temporary Work) - Utilise your skills and expertise under international agreements, fostering international cooperation and collaboration.

Start a business!

Innovator Founder visa - Turn your innovative ideas into reality and establish a ground-breaking business in the UK through this visa category.

Explore a range of work visas and permits tailored to specific professions and industries.

International Sportsperson visa - Take your sporting career to new heights in the UK's renowned sports industry.

Minister of Religion visa (T2) - Share your faith and serve as a religious minister in the UK through this visa category.

Scale-up Worker visa - Join fast-growing companies in the UK and contribute to their expansion and success.

Frontier Worker permit - If you reside outside the UK but work in the country, this permit allows you to continue your employment.

Please note that certain work visa routes are closed to new applicants.

We hope this overview has provided you with valuable insights into the different visas available for work in the UK. If you or anyone you know is considering working in the UK, it is important to seek professional advice to ensure a smooth and successful application process.

Over the last decade, we have assisted more than 400 UK businesses in successfully obtaining sponsor licences.

We have also worked with many thousands of individuals who have benefited from our UK immigration advice and expertise in securing appropriate visas. Reach out today to see how we can help you – [email protected] or 01403 801801