Scale-Up Worker Visa
Purpose and Benefits of the Scale-up Worker Visa
- This visa aims to attract talented individuals to support rapidly expanding UK businesses. Key benefits include:
- The ability to switch jobs after six months without needing a new visa
- Opportunities to bring family members
- A pathway to settlement in the UK after five years
- No requirement for continued sponsorship after the initial six months
How Does the Scale-up Worker Visa Work?
Distinctions Between Sponsored and Unsponsored Routes
Sponsored Route: Applicants must secure a job offer from a UK scale-up business and obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
Unsponsored Route: After six months with the original sponsor, visa holders can change jobs or become self-employed without sponsorship.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Who Can Apply for a UK Scale-up Worker Visa?
To qualify, applicants must:
- Have a confirmed job offer from an approved UK scale-up business
- Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship
- Meet salary and job skill requirements
- Demonstrate English language proficiency
Essential Qualifications and Experience Requirements
Applicants must have skills relevant to the eligible occupation list and meet the minimum salary requirements.
What Are the Certificate of Sponsorship Requirements?
The CoS is a reference number provided by the employer, containing details of the job offer. It must be issued by a UK employer approved to sponsor scale-up workers.
Role of Approved Scale-up Sponsors
Only approved scale-up companies listed by the UK Home Office can issue CoS. These businesses must show significant growth in turnover or employment over the past three years.
What Are the Job Requirements for the Scale-up Worker Visa?
Applicants must work in an eligible occupation, as listed by the UK government, and meet specific skill level requirements.
Salary Requirements for the Scale-up Worker Visa
The minimum salary must be:
- At least £36,300 per year
- The “going rate” for the job, whichever is higher
Understanding Eligible Occupation Codes
Jobs must fall under government-approved occupation codes, which specify qualifying roles.
What Are the Language Requirements for the Scale-up Worker Visa UK?
Applicants must prove English proficiency at B1 level in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
How Do I Apply for a UK Scale-up Worker Visa?
Online Application Procedures and Timelines
- Submit an online application via the UK Home Office website
- Provide supporting documents
- Attend a biometric appointment if required
- Wait for a decision (typically within 3 weeks for applications outside the UK, 8 weeks for extensions)
Required Documentation Checklist
Documents Required for the Scale-up Worker Visa
- Valid passport
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Proof of salary and job offer details
- English language proficiency evidence
Financial Evidence and Maintenance Funds
Applicants may need to show they have at least £1,270 in savings unless their employer covers this cost.
How Much Does the Scale-up Worker Visa Cost?
- Application fee: £880
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
- The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) provides access to the UK healthcare system and is payable upfront for the entire visa duration.
Additional dependants require separate fees.
Duration, Extensions, and Employment Flexibility
Duration and Extension for Scale-up Worker Visa
- Initial visa granted for 2 years
- Extensions available in 3-year increments
An application to extend a Scale-up Worker visa can usually be made if both of the following conditions are met:
- The applicant has worked in the role specified on the Certificate of Sponsorship for a minimum of 6 months
- The applicant has met the relevant earnings requirement for at least half of the duration of their most recent Scale-up Worker visa
The amount applicants need to have earned depends on when their employer issued the Certificate of Sponsorship that was last used to apply for or extend their visa.
Changing Employer on a Scale-up Worker Visa
After six months, workers can change employers without updating their visa. However, the new role must still meet salary and occupation requirements.
Transitioning from Sponsored to Unsponsored Employment
After completing six months with a sponsoring employer, visa holders can work for any employer or be self-employed without sponsorship.
Eligibility and Process for Switching to the Scale-up Worker Visa
Applicants already in the UK on certain visa types can switch to this visa if they meet eligibility criteria.
Compatible Visa Categories for Transition
Visas eligible for switching include the Skilled Worker visa and Student visa, among others.
Can I Bring Family Members to the UK on a Scale-up Worker Visa?
Yes, dependants (spouses, partners, and children under 18) can apply.
Requirements for Spouses, Partners, and Children
Each dependant must meet financial requirements and submit proof of relationship.
Can the Scale-up Worker Visa Lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain?
After 5 years, visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) if they:
- Have continuously lived in the UK
- Meet salary requirements
- Pass the Life in the UK Test
Criteria and Process for Settlement Applications
ILR applicants must provide evidence of residence, employment, and compliance with visa conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch employers after arriving in the UK?
Yes, after six months.
How long does the visa application take?
Around 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
Is sponsorship needed for an extension?
No, provided you meet income requirements.
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