Global Talent Visa

Global Talent Visa

The Global Talent Visa is designed for highly skilled individuals in science, digital technology, arts, and culture who are either established leaders or demonstrate the potential to become leaders in their field. This visa replaced the Tier 1 Exceptional Talent Visa on 20 February 2020.

Applicants who have obtained an endorsement from one of six Home Office-approved endorsing bodies may apply for this visa. Those who have reached the pinnacle of their career and received prestigious international awards may qualify for an endorsement exemption under the UK Immigration Rules Appendix Global Talent. Holders of this visa can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years of residence in the UK.

Approved Endorsing Bodies:

• The British Academy
• The Royal Academy of Engineering
• The Royal Society
• UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
• Arts Council England
• Tech Nation

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
• Two main application categories exist:
  1. Standard Applicants: Must obtain an endorsement from one of the approved bodies and apply for the visa within three months of receiving the endorsement. A job offer in the UK is not required.
  2. Fast-Track Applicants: Those meeting any of the following conditions may apply directly for the visa without prior endorsement:
     • Received a qualifying international award from the British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering, or Royal Society within the past 12 months.
     • Hold a senior research position at a UK university or research institution listed by the British Academy, Royal Academy of Engineering, or Royal Society.
     • Have secured research funding of at least £30,000 from a UK higher education or research institution, or a UKRI-approved sponsor, with funding lasting a minimum of two years.

Required Documents:

• A valid passport.
• Proof of endorsement or documentation satisfying fast-track criteria.

Benefits of the Global Talent Visa:

• No requirements for English language proficiency or maintenance funds.
• No minimum salary threshold.
• Family members (spouse and children) can accompany the visa holder to the UK.
• Flexibility to change employers, locations, or job roles.

Visa Duration and ILR Pathway:

• Applicants may choose a visa validity period of up to five years.
• ILR Eligibility:
  • Talent Applicants: Those who are recognised leaders in their field can apply for ILR after three years.
  • Promise Applicants: Emerging leaders with potential must reside in the UK for five years before applying for ILR.
  • Scientific Fields: Applicants in science, engineering, humanities, or medicine, regardless of being classified as Talent or Promise, may apply for ILR after three years.

Special Provisions for Time Spent Abroad:For applicants and dependants in science, engineering, humanities, or medicine, time spent abroad for research-related work will not count as an absence when applying for ILR.

Disclaimer: The above content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration advice. All interpretations are subject to AGSO International Lawyers (UK) Ltd. For detailed guidance, please contact our professional immigration advisors.