The UK Expansion Worker visa is part of the Global Business Mobility (GBM) Visa category, designed for senior managers or specialist employees assigned to the UK to establish a branch of an overseas business that has not yet commenced trading in the UK. This visa facilitates the expansion of international businesses into the UK market.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the UK Expansion Worker visa, applicants must:
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Obtain a valid certificate from a UK sponsor licensed for this route.
- Employment Requirement: Be employed by the overseas business as a senior manager or specialist employee.
- Job Role: The role must be on the list of eligible occupations.
- Salary Threshold: Earn at least £45,800 per year or the “going rate” for the role, whichever is higher.
- Work Experience: Have worked for the overseas business outside the UK for at least 12 months, unless:
- You’re earning over £73,900.
- You’re a Japanese national working for a Japanese company expanding to the UK.
- You’re a national or permanent resident of Australia working for an Australian company expanding to the UK.
Application Process
The application involves two steps:
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Your UK sponsor must issue a certificate confirming your role, salary, and eligibility.
- Visa Application: Submit an online visa application with supporting documents, including proof of employment, eligibility, and maintenance funds if required.
Processing typically takes 3 weeks, with expedited options available upon payment of an additional fee.
Visa Duration and Conditions
The visa is granted for the shorter of:
- 12 months after the start date of the job on your Certificate of Sponsorship.
- The time given on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days.
You can extend your visa by 12 months, up to a maximum of 2 years. This visa does not lead directly to settlement in the UK.
Fees and Maintenance Funds
- Application Fees: £259 per person for the visa.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year for each applicant and dependent.
- Maintenance Funds: £1,270 for the main applicant, plus:
- £285 for a partner.
- £315 for a first child.
- £200 for each additional child.
These maintenance requirements may be waived if the sponsor certifies maintenance on the Certificate of Sponsorship.
Bringing Family Members to the UK
The visa allows you to bring your spouse or partner and dependent children. Each family member must apply separately, pay the visa fee, and demonstrate evidence of maintenance funds unless the sponsor certifies their maintenance.
Why Choose JNS Solicitors?
At JNS Solicitors, we offer comprehensive legal support for Global Business Mobility Visa applications. Our experienced team ensures your UK Expansion Worker visa application is complete, accurate, and meets all Home Office requirements.
From securing your Certificate of Sponsorship to managing the visa application process, we guide you every step of the way. Our expertise and dedication give you the best chance of success.
📞 Contact JNS Solicitors today to start your UK Expansion Worker visa journey with confidence.