Expansion worker visa

Embarking on a professional journey to the United Kingdom is a step towards growth and new horizons. The UK Expansion Worker Visa is tailor-made for individuals keen on establishing a branch of an overseas business that has yet to commence operations in the UK. To qualify, applicants must currently hold positions as senior managers or specialist employees within the overseas business.

Here are the essential requirements and necessary documents for applying for a UK Expansion Worker Visa. It's crucial to understand that this list of documents and requirements isn't exhaustive. Depending on your unique circumstances, you might need to furnish additional documents or meet different criteria.

Eligibility Criteria:

To secure this visa, candidates must fulfill the following criteria:

• The parent company must first register its branch or subsidiary, subsequently applying for and obtaining a sponsorship license. Following this, they will issue you a certificate of sponsorship as their representative. 
• Have a work history with an employer outside the UK.
• Engage in an occupation listed as eligible.
• Receive a salary meeting the minimum requirements for the specific job.

The eligibility criteria vary based on the job, ensuring a fair and transparent process.

Duration of Stay:

The UK Expansion Worker Visa allows a stay for the shorter duration of either:

• Twelve months after the job's start date on the certificate of sponsorship.
• The time mentioned on the certificate of sponsorship plus an additional 14 days.

Extensions for up to 12 months are possible, with the maximum allowable stay being 2 years.

Partners and children can also join or stay with the applicant as 'dependants' if they meet eligibility criteria.

Financial Aspects:

Financial Requirement:

To meet the financial requirement, maintain a minimum of £1,270 in your bank account for at least 28 days prior to application. Ensure compliance with this stipulation. Alternatively, if your employer is willing to cover initial costs, confirm their ability to provide requisite financial support. If you have dependents, note that they also must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency in the UK:

£285 for your partner

£315 for one child

£200 for each additional child

No English Language Proficiency Requirement: Unlike many other visa categories, the UK Expansion Worker Visa does not require applicants to prove their proficiency in the English language. This is a notable benefit for individuals whose native language may not be English and who might find it challenging to meet language testing standards.

Privileges and Limitations:

With the UK Expansion Worker Visa, individuals can:

• Work in the job specified in the certificate of sponsorship.
• Pursue studies.
• Bring eligible partners and children.
• Engage in voluntary work.
• Travel abroad and return to the UK.

However, certain restrictions apply, such as the inability to apply for most public funds or change jobs without proper eligibility and visa updates. While this visa does not directly lead to settling in the UK, there could be opportunities for you to switch to another immigration route that does allow for settlement.