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Global Business Mobility

UK Expansion Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility)

The UK Expansion Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) is designed for senior managers and specialist employees of overseas businesses who need to establish a branch in the UK. This visa allows key personnel to expand their company’s presence in the UKbefore full-scale operations begin.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a UK Expansion Worker visa, you must:

  • Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved UK sponsor.

  • Be currently employed by the overseas company.

  • Work in an eligible occupation as listed by the UK government.

  • Meet the minimum salary requirement for your role.

This visa is specifically for businesses that do not yet have a trading presence in the UK. If your company is already operating in the UK, you should apply for a Senior or Specialist Worker visa instead.

Duration and Extensions

The initial UK Expansion Worker visa is granted for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extending it for another 12 months. However, the maximum time allowed on this visa is 2 years.

If you have previously held certain UK work visas, your total stay across those routes must not exceed 5 years in any 6-year period.

Application Process

The application process depends on whether you are applying from outside the UK, extending your current visa, or switching from another visa category. The general steps include:

  1. Submitting an online application through the UK Home Office portal.

  2. Providing biometric information at a visa application centre or using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app.

  3. Paying the visa application fee and the immigration healthcare surcharge.

  4. Providing proof of sufficient personal savings to support yourself in the UK.

Your partner and children can apply to join you as dependants, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

Costs Involved

Applicants must pay:

  • The visa application fee.

  • The immigration healthcare surcharge for each year of stay.

  • Proof of sufficient personal savings to support yourself in the UK.

Processing Times

Visa applications are usually processed within:

  • 3 weeks for applications from outside the UK.

  • 8 weeks for applications from within the UK.

  • Priority processing may be available for an additional fee.

What You Can and Cannot Do

With a UK Expansion Worker visa, you can:

  • Work for your sponsoring employer in the UK.

  • Study while in the UK.

  • Travel abroad and return to the UK.

  • Bring your partner and children as dependants.

However, you cannot:

  • Access public funds or the UK State Pension.

  • Take on secondary employment or work outside of your sponsored role.

  • Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) under this visa route.

How We Can Help

Navigating UK visa applications can be complex. Our experienced immigration specialists can assist you in securing a UK Expansion Worker visa, ensuring a smooth process from start to finish. Contact us today for expert legal guidance.