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UK Expansion Worker Visa

Establish Your Overseas Business in the UK

Important: This program is only for foreign senior employees of overseas companies establishing or managing a UK branch or subsidiary. It is not for individuals seeking employment in the UK.

UK Expansion Worker Visa Guidance & Assessment

Get expert evaluation of your UK Expansion Worker visa eligibility

What You'll Get

  • Personalized assessment of your eligibility
  • Detailed investment options based on your profile
  • Expert guidance on the application process
  • Free consultation with an immigration lawyer

Expert Support

  • Comprehensive case review by qualified lawyers
  • Strategic planning for UK business establishment
  • Sponsor license application guidance
  • End-to-end visa application support

Ready to Start Your UK Business Expansion Visa?

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Program Overview

The UK Expansion Worker Visa allows foreigners to migrate to the UK to set up a branch or subsidiary of their overseas business, which will then allow them to switch to another visa that will lead to permanent residency. Applicants can apply to become UK permanent residents after living in the UK for 5 years with a qualifying visa that leads to settlement.

Key Benefits

Residency and Family Inclusion

  • Enables a senior employee of an overseas company to move to the UK and run a new branch or subsidiary
  • Spouse included
  • Children under 18 included
  • Children over 18 currently in the UK as a dependent included

Travel and Quality of Life

  • One of the highest standards of living in the world
  • Member of the G-7 group of countries
  • High standard education and healthcare system
  • Access to business opportunities throughout Europe

UK Expansion Worker Visa Requirements

To qualify for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, the applicant must meet all of the following criteria:

Company Requirements

Currently work for an overseas employer that has been active and trading for at least 3 years. The overseas company must establish a new UK branch or company as a subsidiary of the overseas business.

Employment History

Have worked for the employer outside the UK for at least 12 months prior to date of application (some exceptions apply).

Job Requirements

Have a valid certificate of sponsorship from the employer. Perform a job that's on the list of eligible occupations. Be sponsored to undertake a genuine job in the UK.

Salary Requirements

Be paid the minimum eligible salary required for the job or at least £45,800 (whichever is higher).

Financial Requirements

Have sufficient funds – at least £1,270 available held for at least 28 consecutive days before the date of application.

Path to Permanent Residency

Can apply to become UK permanent residents after living in the UK for 5 years with a qualifying visa that leads to settlement.

Application Process

Our experienced immigration team will guide you through each step of the process

1

Due Diligence And Application

Overseas business must establish a UK subsidiary company. The UK business must obtain a Sponsorship Licence and issue a certificate of sponsorship to the applicant.

2

Approval And Investment

Within 3 months of issuing certificate of sponsorship, the applicant must apply for the UK Expansion Worker visa and attend a Visa Application Centre for biometrics.

3

Residency

Visa will be issued for 1 year and may be extended for a further year for a maximum of 2 years in total. Once a UK trading presence is established, switch to a Skilled Worker visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the UK Expansion Worker Visa?
Eligibility requires a certificate of sponsorship, at least 12 months employment with the parent company outside the UK, a job on the list of eligible occupations, and minimum salary requirements. Applicants must also show sufficient funds, pay the health surcharge, and have no criminal convictions or health issues.
How long is the UK Expansion Worker Visa valid?
The UK Expansion Worker Visa is generally valid for 1 year from the job start date as per the Certificate of Sponsorship, or the time on the certificate plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.
What are the requirements for the overseas business?
An overseas business must not be currently trading in the UK and must operate for at least 3 years overseas to qualify for setting up a UK branch or subsidiary.
Does the UK Expansion Worker Visa lead to permanent settlement?
The UK Expansion Worker Visa does not directly lead to settlement, but holders may switch to a visa category that allows for this after establishing a UK trading presence. Eligibility for permanent residence requires 5 years of residence in the UK on a visa that leads to settlement.
Can dependents accompany the visa holder?
Yes, dependents of UK Expansion Worker Visa holders, including spouses and minor children, can accompany the main applicant and are permitted to work or study in the UK.