The Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa

Is for senior managers and specialist employees who wish to be assigned to the UK temporarily to undertake work related to the expansion of an overseas business in the UK. Sponsors may send a maximum of 5 workers at a time. The UK Expansion Worker route can only be used when the UK business has not yet started trading. If the business is already trading in the UK, you should apply for a Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker Visa instead.

In order to secure a UK Expansion Worker Visa you will need to be sponsored to do a specific job, which meets certain skill and salary requirements, by an employer that has been licensed by the Home Office. We have published separate guidance for employers who are considering applying for a UK Expansion Worker sponsor licence.

The Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa does not lead directly to settlement in the UK. However, you may be able to switch into another immigration route which does lead to settlement. Applicants may be joined or accompanied by a partner and dependent children.

Requirements for a Global Business Mobility Visa: UK Expansion Worker:

In order to qualify for a Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker Visa, you will need to satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that:

You are aged 18 or over;

You are currently working for a business or organisation that is linked to your UK sponsor by common ownership or control;

You have worked outside the UK for the linked business or organisation for a cumulative period of at least 12 months, unless you are a high earner earning £73,900 per year or more or you are a Japanese national seeking to establish a UK branch or subsidiary of the linked business or organisation under the UK-Japan Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement;

You have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued by your UK sponsor for the job you are planning to do;

The job you are planning to do is genuine;

The job you are planning to do is skilled to at least RQF Level 6 (graduate equivalent);

Your salary will be equal to or exceed both £42,400 per year and the ‘going rate’ for the job;

You have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds;

You have provided a valid TB certificate, if required.

The exact requirements you will need to satisfy may vary depending on your circumstances. You may want to speak to an immigration lawyer for expert advice.