The “UK Global Talent Visa” Explained

The UK Global Talent Visa is an immigration category for talented and promising individuals in specific sectors wishing to work in the UK. It replaced the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa in February 2020.

 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Global Talent Visa, you must be a leader or potential leader in one of the following fields:

  • Academia or research
  •  Arts and culture
  • Digital technology
  • You must also be at least 18 years old

 

Application Procedure 

To apply for the Global Talent Visa, you need to go through two stages:

1. Global Talent Endorsement: You need to apply for an endorsement to prove that you are a leader or potential leader in your field. You can apply for the endorsement through one of the six endorsing bodies engaged by the UK Home Office.

2. Global Talent Visa Application: Once you have received the endorsement, you can apply for the Global Talent Visa.

 

Benefits of the Global Talent Visa

  1. Flexibility to work in the UK:The Global Talent Visa allows you to work in the UK on a flexible basis with fewer restrictions and costs than other immigration categories.
  2. Unsponsored immigration category: Unlike the UK’s main Skilled Worker visa, Global Talent is an unsponsored immigration category. This means you have the flexibility to change roles or employers, enter self-employment, set up a spin-out company, or earn money from other sources such as consultancy without seeking permission from the Home Office.
  3. Fast-track to settlement: The Global Talent Visa comes with a fast-track to settlement after three years for the main visa holder and (if applicable) the opportunity for close family members to work in the UK.
  4. Lower visa fees: The standard fee for a five-year Global Talent Visa is £716, compared to £1,420-£1,500 for the Skilled Worker visa. The Global Talent Visa is also exempt from employer sponsorship costs, including the UK Immigration Skills Charge.

 

Duration of the Global Talent Visa

A Global Talent Visa is valid for five years, with the possibility of renewal. If you apply as a leader or exceptional talent, you can apply for settlement in the UK after three years of residence. If you apply as a potential leader, you can apply for settlement after five years.

 

Note

If you are eligible for a Global Talent Visa, you can bring your family members to the UK with you, and you can all apply at the same time. This includes your spouse and any minor or dependent children. For each of your dependent family members, you have to pay an extra application fee of £608 and bring the relevant documents.

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