The Service Supplier Visa is a UK immigration route designed for overseas workers and service providers undertaking temporary work assignments in the UK. This visa replaces the previous T5 International Agreement route, which covered contractual service suppliers and independent professionals.
Key Benefits
✅ Work in the UK under an international trade agreement.
✅ Available to both employees and self-employed professionals.
✅ Greater flexibility than Business Visitor rules.
✅ Allows temporary assignments without requiring UK sponsorship for long-term employment.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be an employee of an overseas service provider or a self-employed professional.
- Be providing services to a UK company under a contract covered by a valid international trade agreement.
- Have worked for their overseas employer for at least 12 months OR have 12 months of professional experience if self-employed.
- Hold a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a Home Office-licensed UK sponsor.
- Work in an eligible occupation as defined by UKVI.
- Demonstrate financial self-sufficiency (£1,270 in savings for at least 28 days before applying).
UK Company Requirements
The UK company must:
- Hold a Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence issued by the Home Office.
- Appoint key personnel to manage the sponsor licence.
- Maintain reporting and record-keeping systems to comply with UKVI regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the visa valid for?
The visa is granted for up to 12 months, but the actual duration depends on the trade agreement under which services are provided.
How much does this visa cost?
- £298 application fee.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) may apply depending on the length of stay.
Does this visa lead to settlement?
No, the Service Supplier Visa does not lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
When should I apply?
You can apply up to 3 months before your intended start date in the UK.
How long can a Service Supplier employee work in the UK?
The worker can provide services for whichever is shorter:
- 6 or 12 months, depending on the trade agreement.
- The time specified on their Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days.
Why Choose UK Visas?
At UK Visas, we provide expert guidance to businesses and professionals navigating UK immigration rules. Our specialists ensure a smooth, compliant visa application process, helping overseas service providers and UK companies maximise opportunities under international trade agreements.
