UK Expansion Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility)

Overview

The UK Expansion Worker visa is designed for individuals who are part of a foreign business planning to expand its operations into the UK. This visa falls under the Global Business Mobility category and allows you to establish a presence for your employer in the UK. It replaces the Sole Representative visa route and provides a pathway for international businesses to send their employees to the UK to oversee new business operations.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the UK Expansion Worker visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Sponsorship: You must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK-licensed sponsor (your employer) who is approved by the Home Office.

2. Employment: You should be an existing employee of the foreign business and have worked outside the UK for your employer.

3. Job Role: The position you are coming to the UK to fill must be a genuine vacancy, requiring your specific skills, knowledge, and experience.

4. Salary Requirements: You must meet the minimum salary threshold for your job, which typically aligns with the going rate for the occupation you will perform in the UK.

5. Additional Requirements:

   • You must be over 18 years of age.

   • You cannot own more than 10% of the business, unless your annual salary is £73,900 or more.

   • You must have sufficient funds to support yourself upon your arrival in the UK (unless your sponsor agrees to cover your costs).

Visa Duration

The UK Expansion Worker visa allows you to stay in the UK for an initial period of up to 12 months. This period can be extended for an additional 12 months, allowing for a maximum stay of 2 years in total.

Application Process

To apply for the UK Expansion Worker visa, follow these steps:

1. Certificate of Sponsorship: Obtain a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from your UK-based employer.

2. Online Application: Complete the online application form and submit the required documents, including proof of your employment and salary.

3. Biometric Information: Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photo) at a visa application center.

4. Visa Fee and Health Surcharge: Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application.

5. Decision: Await a decision from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) department.

Costs and Fees

• Visa Application Fee: The fee for the UK Expansion Worker visa is approximately £625.

• Immigration Health Surcharge: You will need to pay the IHS, which is currently £624 per year for each year of your visa.

• Certificate of Sponsorship: Your employer will cover the costs associated with obtaining your Certificate of Sponsorship.

Rights and Limitations

With a UK Expansion Worker visa, you can:

• Work for your sponsor in the job described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.

• Travel abroad and return to the UK.

• Bring your partner and children as dependents.

However, you cannot:

• Access public funds or benefits.

• Switch to another visa category within the UK.

• Apply to settle permanently in the UK under this visa route.

Why Choose Cliff Inc. for Your UK Expansion Worker Visa?

At Cliff Immigration Inc., we recognize the complexities of international business mobility and are dedicated to providing you with expert guidance and comprehensive support throughout the visa application process. Our team of immigration specialists will collaborate closely with you to ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements and successfully navigate the UK Expansion Worker visa’s procedural demands. With our extensive expertise and personalized approach, we are committed to making your transition to the UK as seamless as possible.