UK Expansion Worker visa (Global Business Mobility)

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for the UK Expansion Worker visa, you must meet the following requirements:

 

- Possess a valid certificate of sponsorship issued by your employer.

- Have prior work experience with your employer outside the UK.

- Engage in a job that falls under the list of eligible occupations.

- Receive a salary that meets the minimum requirements for your specific role.

 

Additionally, your employer must ensure that your job adheres to UK regulations regarding minimum wage and weekly working hours. Failure to comply with these regulations may result in a refusal of your application. We believe in fair employment practices. Your employer must comply with UK rules regarding minimum wages and weekly working hours. If they don't, don't worry! Our team will assist you in navigating any challenges and ensuring a smooth application process.

 

Certificate of Sponsorship

A certificate of sponsorship is an electronic document issued by your employer that confirms your job offer and eligibility for the UK Expansion Worker visa.
 

What Does the Certificate Contain?

The certificate includes:

• Details about your job, including the title and occupation code.

• The start and end dates of your employment.

• Information about your salary and working hours.

• Confirmation that your job complies with UK immigration rules.

How to Obtain It?

Your employer will provide the certificate after assessing your eligibility. If your employer is not familiar with the process, we can offer step-by-step guidance to ensure compliance with UK immigration standards.

 

Work Experience Requirement

Most applicants must have worked for their employer outside the UK for at least 12 months.
 

Exceptions to the 12-Month Rule

You may be exempt from the 12-month work requirement if:

• Your annual salary is £73,900 or more.

• You are a Japanese or Australian national or a permanent Australian resident working for a Japanese company expanding into the UK.
   

Why Is This Requirement Important?

The UK Government has designed this rule to ensure that the visa is used by experienced workers familiar with their employer’s business operations. It prevents misuse by unqualified applicants.
 

Common Questions About Work Experience

• Q: What types of jobs qualify for this requirement?
  A: Any job that aligns with the eligible occupation codes provided by the UK Government.

• Q: Can part-time work count toward the 12-month requirement?
  A: No, you must have held a full-time position.

 

Occupational Eligibility

The UK Expansion Worker visa is only available for jobs that fall under specific eligible occupations.
 

What Are Eligible Occupations?

Eligible jobs are listed in the UK Government’s occupation codes. These are roles that are deemed essential for business mobility and expansion. Examples include:

• Management consultants

• IT specialists

• Engineers

• Financial analysts
   

How to Find Your Occupation Code?

You can obtain your occupation code from your employer or the certificate of sponsorship. If you're unsure about the eligibility of your job, consult with us, and we’ll verify it for you.

 

Salary Requirements

To qualify for the UK Expansion Worker visa, your salary must meet the minimum threshold for your role.
 

General Salary Thresholds

The minimum salary is £42,400 annually or £20.41 per hour, whichever is higher.
 

Exceptions to Salary Rules

Certain high-income roles or specialist jobs may have different thresholds.
 

How to Calculate Your Salary?

Your salary must include:

• Basic pay

• Guaranteed bonuses
  It cannot include overtime pay or other allowances.
   

Duration of Stay

The length of time you can stay in the UK on this visa depends on your certificate of sponsorship.
 

Initial Visa Duration

You can stay for:

• 12 months after your job’s start date, or

• The length of your job as specified on the certificate, plus 14 days (whichever is shorter).
   

Visa Extensions

You can apply to extend your visa for another 12 months, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

Maximum Stay

The total time you can spend on a UK Expansion Worker visa is 2 years.

Cumulative Stay Cap

If you’ve held other related visas (e.g., Intra-company Graduate Trainee or Senior Specialist Worker visas), your total stay in the UK must not exceed 5 years 
 

Application Process

The application for the UK Expansion Worker visa must be completed online.

Key Steps

1. Gather required documents:

   • Certificate of sponsorship

   • Proof of work experience

   • Proof of salary eligibility

2. Complete the online application form.

3. Pay the visa application fee and the healthcare surcharge.

4. Submit your biometric information (fingerprints and photo).

Processing Times

• Applications typically take 3 weeks to process if applying from outside the UK.

• Extensions or switches from within the UK may take longer.

Application Costs

• Standard application fee: £259

• Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year

 

Benefits of the UK Expansion Worker Visa

With the UK Expansion Worker visa, you’ll gain several advantages:

Work and Study

• Work for your sponsoring employer.

• Pursue studies alongside your job.
   

Family and Dependents

You can bring dependents, including:

• Spouse or partner

• Children under 18
   

Freedom to Travel

Travel freely between the UK and other countries without restrictions.
 

Restrictions

• You cannot apply for public funds or the State Pension.

• You must update your visa if changing jobs.

• You cannot take a second job.

• Permanent settlement is not available under this visa.

 

How We Can Help

Applying for a UK Expansion Worker visa can be complicated, but our experienced immigration consultants will:

• Help your employer obtain a sponsor license if needed.

• Ensure all documents are accurate and complete.

• Guide you through each step of the application process.

Why Choose Us?

• Proven track record of successful applications.

• In-depth knowledge of UK immigration laws.

• Personalized guidance tailored to your needs.
   

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I switch to this visa from another visa type?
A: Yes, provided you meet all eligibility requirements.

Q: Can my family members work in the UK as dependents?
A: Yes, dependents can work without restrictions.

Q: What happens if my application is refused?
A: You can appeal the decision or reapply. We can assist in both cases.

Contact Us Today

Ready to start your UK Expansion Worker visa journey?
Our team is here to make the process simple and stress-free.

Contact us now for a free consultation and personalized advice.

Let us help you turn your UK expansion dreams into reality!