🌐 Overview: Embark on a seamless journey to establish your business branch in the UK with our dedicated UK Expansion Worker Visa services. Tailored for senior managers and specialist employees, this visa facilitates the setup of overseas businesses that have yet to initiate trading in the UK.
Eligibility: To qualify for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, ensure you meet the following criteria:
- Possess a valid certificate of sponsorship from your employer.
- Have prior work experience with your employer outside the UK.
- Engage in a job listed under eligible occupations.
- Receive the minimum eligible salary for your designated role.
Duration: Stay in the UK with the UK Expansion Worker Visa for the shorter of:
- 12 months after the job’s start date on your certificate of sponsorship.
- The time stated on your certificate of sponsorship plus an additional 14 days.
Extend your visa for up to 12 months, with a maximum stay of 2 years.
Application Process:
- Certificate of Sponsorship:
- Obtain a valid certificate of sponsorship from your employer.
- Eligibility Check:
- Ensure your job is on the list of eligible occupations.
- Confirm that you meet the minimum salary requirements.
- Online Application:
- Apply online, specifying whether you are outside the UK, extending your current visa, or switching from a different visa.
Necessary Documents: Gather essential documents to strengthen your application:
- Passport and travel history
- Proof of English proficiency
- Valid certificate of sponsorship
- Bank statements showing financial capacity
- TB test certificate if required
Restrictions: If you’ve spent time in the UK on specific visas, your maximum stay may be limited to 5 years in any 6-year period.
Costs: Applicants and dependents need to cover the application fee, healthcare surcharge, and demonstrate sufficient personal savings. Please check the official website for precise cost details.
Processing Time: Expect a decision within 3 weeks if outside the UK and 8 weeks if inside. Expedited processing options may be available.
What You Can and Cannot Do:
- Can: Work, study, bring eligible dependents, do voluntary work, travel abroad, and return to the UK.
- Cannot: Apply for most benefits, change jobs without updating your visa, have a second job, apply for indefinite leave to remain.
Where and How to Apply?
The UK Expansion Visa application is submitted online through the official UK government platform. Universal Chambers will guide you through the entire process, ensuring a seamless application.
No, the UK Expansion Worker Visa is specifically designed for setting up a branch of an overseas business that has not yet started trading in the UK. If your business is already trading, you should consider applying for a Senior or Specialist Worker Visa.
Yes, the eligibility for the visa is based on having a job that's on the list of eligible occupations. The specific requirements depend on the nature of your job.
Yes, your partner and children can apply to join you or stay in the UK as your dependants if they are eligible. This includes spouses, civil partners, and children under the age of 18.
Yes, you can switch to the UK Expansion Worker Visa from within the UK. The process may vary depending on your current visa status, and you should apply online for the switch.