Senior or Specialist Worker visa (Global Business Mobility)

The Senior or Specialist Worker Visa, part of the Global Business Mobility scheme, allows UK businesses to transfer senior managers and specialist employees from overseas branches. Designed to replace the Tier 2 Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa, this route facilitates smooth transitions for executives, department heads, and key specialists crucial to business operations.

Why Choose the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa?

This visa is tailored for high-level positions and specialised roles within multinational companies. Unlike the Skilled Worker Visa, which covers a broader range of professions, this route is designed specifically for internal company transfers, allowing businesses to strategically position key personnel in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

For Employers:

• Hold a valid UK sponsor licence issued by the Home Office.
• Offer a role that meets the minimum salary requirement, now set at £48,500 per year or 100% of the going rate for the occupation.
• Ensure compliance with immigration sponsorship regulations, including maintaining records and fulfilling reporting duties.

For Employees:

• Must have worked for their overseas employer for at least 12 months, unless they earn £73,900 or more, in which case they can transfer immediately.
• The role must align with a recognised Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) code.

Application Process

1. Issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

   • Employers must assign a CoS, an electronic record confirming job details, salary, and employment conditions.

2. Document Verification

   • Applicants must provide necessary documents, including:
     • Passport or valid travel documents
     • Proof of employment history
     • Relevant qualifications or certifications

3. Application Submission and Fees

   • Applications are submitted online, with costs now ranging from £284 to £1,235, depending on duration and employer size.

4. Biometric Information and Additional Checks

   • Applicants may need to attend a biometric appointment and undergo criminal record checks, depending on the industry.

5. Decision Timeline

   • The visa allows 5 years in any 6-year period for salaries below £73,900 and 9 years in any 10-year period for salaries above that threshold. Employers should apply well in advance to accommodate work schedules.

Financial Obligations for Employers

Employers may be responsible for:

• Immigration Skills Charge, based on company size and visa duration.
• Healthcare surcharge and additional processing costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does this differ from the Skilled Worker Visa?
The Senior or Specialist Worker Visa is specifically designed for internal transfers of executives and specialists. It requires higher salaries and has stricter eligibility criteria than the Skilled Worker route.

Does this visa lead to settlement?
No, this visa does not lead directly to indefinite leave to remain (ILR). If applicants wish to settle permanently in the UK, they must switch to another eligible visa category.

Are there employer costs beyond the visa fee?
Employers may need to cover the Immigration Skills Charge, sponsorship licence fees, and healthcare surcharges.

Next Steps

Transferring senior managers and specialist employees under this visa can strengthen business operations in the UK. If your organisation is looking to streamline global mobility, we can provide expert guidance.

For tailored support, contact UK Visas today for personalised assistance.