The UK Expansion Worker visa offers an excellent opportunity for senior management and specialist employees from overseas businesses looking to expand into the UK market. If you’re part of a company looking to establish a presence in the UK, whether by setting up a branch, subsidiary, or another form of expansion, this visa could be the right solution. It allows you to work temporarily in the UK to facilitate your company’s growth. The UK Expansion Worker visa replaced the Sole Representative visa and is specifically designed for businesses that have not yet started trading in the UK.
At The Nathanson Partnership, we understand that applying for the Expansion Worker visa can feel overwhelming, especially with its detailed requirements. Our team of expert immigration advisors are here to offer guidance and support every step of the way. We simplify the process, ensuring that you meet all the necessary criteria and submit the correct documentation for a successful application.
For a personalised consultation and expert guidance, contact us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].
Who Can Apply for the UK Expansion Worker Visa?
The UK Expansion Worker visa is designed for senior management and specialist employees from overseas businesses looking to expand their operations into the UK. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet several requirements. First, you must have worked for your employer outside the UK for at least 12 months, unless you meet one of the following exceptions: your annual salary exceeds £73,900, if you are a Japanese national working for a Japanese company expanding to the UK, or if you are an Australian national or permanent resident working for an Australian company expanding to the UK.
In addition, you must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer. This document confirms your job role, salary, and work experience, and it must be issued within three months of submitting your visa application. The job you will be doing in the UK must be listed as an eligible occupation, and it should pay at least £42,400 per year, or the going rate for your role, whichever is higher. Your employer must also have a valid sponsor licence from the UK Home Office, but they don’t need to be actively trading in the UK yet. They simply need to show that they are preparing to set up a business in the country, such as registering a company or securing office premises.
What is the Process of Applying for the UK Expansion Worker Visa?
The process of applying for the UK Expansion Worker visa begins with getting a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number from your employer. A CoS is an electronic document containing details about your job in the UK, including your salary and work experience. Your employer must issue the CoS no more than three months before you apply for your visa. Once you have the CoS reference number, you can begin the online application process through the UK Government website.
When applying, you will need to provide supporting documents, such as your valid passport, the CoS reference number, proof of your salary and job role, and evidence of your work history outside the UK. You will also need to show that you meet the financial maintenance requirements by providing bank statements or evidence of your employer’s commitment to covering your living costs. If applicable, you must submit additional documents like tuberculosis test results (if you’re from a listed country) or evidence of your relationship with dependents applying with you.
The next step involves submitting biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph, at a visa application centre. After submitting your application, processing times vary depending on where you are applying from. If you are applying from outside the UK, the process typically takes up to three weeks. Once approved, you will be granted a visa that allows you to work in the UK for the duration specified in your CoS, up to one year, with the possibility of extending your visa for an additional year.
It is important to note that the UK Expansion Worker visa is a temporary visa and does not provide a direct route to permanent settlement or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, you can explore other visa routes for permanent residency once you meet the necessary criteria.
Why You Should Choose The Nathanson Partnership
At The Nathanson Partnership, we specialise in guiding international workers through the complex UK immigration process. From verifying the eligibility of your employer’s contract to ensuring all your documentation is in order, our team is here to make your visa application as smooth as possible.
Let our team of regulated immigration professionals provide you with the expertise and confidence you need to make a successful application.
For a personalised consultation and expert guidance, contact us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].