The Graduate Trainee visa is a fantastic opportunity for career growth, but the application process requires careful planning and attention to detail. Each requirement is designed to ensure the programme supports individuals who are committed to developing their skills and advancing in their roles.
At The Nathanson Partnership, we specialise in simplifying complex immigration processes. We’ll guide you through every step, from verifying your employer’s sponsor status to ensuring your Certificate of Sponsorship is complete and compliant.
Get in touch today for a free consultation with our expert immigration advisors and take the first step towards securing your Graduate Trainee visa.
For a personalised consultation and expert guidance, contact us today. You can reach us at 020 3476 9523 or [email protected].
What is the Graduate Trainee Visa?
The Graduate Trainee visa allows overseas employees to work at their employer’s UK branch as part of a structured graduate training program leading to a specialist or senior managerial role. It’s a great opportunity for individuals aiming to gain international experience while advancing their careers.
Who Can Apply for the Graduate Trainee Visa?
Qualifying for the Graduate Trainee visa requires meeting several key criteria to prove to the Home Office that you’re ready to contribute as part of a structured training programme in the UK. You must already be employed by an organisation that holds a UK sponsor licence, ensuring they meet the necessary standards to support and monitor visa applicants. Additionally, you must have worked for your employer outside the UK for at least three consecutive months, demonstrating your familiarity with the company and its operations.
A crucial part of your application is securing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer. This document outlines key details about your UK role, including your job title, salary, and occupational code. It must be issued no more than three months before your visa application. Your job must also be on the Home Office’s list of eligible occupations, ensuring the programme is focused on developing skills in specialist areas.
Meeting salary requirements is essential. You must earn at least £25,410 per year or 70% of your occupation’s “going rate,” whichever is higher. If your employer doesn’t certify financial support on your CoS, you must provide proof of personal savings to support yourself in the UK. If you plan to bring family members, you’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship and ensure they meet separate financial requirements.
What is the Graduate Trainee Visa Application Process?
The process of applying for the Graduate Trainee visa begins by completing an online application. You will need to gather and submit several important documents. A key requirement is your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number, which will be provided by your employer. Along with this, you’ll need to submit a valid passport or another document that confirms your identity and nationality, as well as details about your job title, salary, and occupation code. Additionally, the name of your employer and their sponsor licence number, which can be found on your certificate of sponsorship, will be necessary.
You will also need to provide evidence of sufficient personal savings, such as bank statements, unless your employer has confirmed in the certificate of sponsorship that they will be supporting you financially. If your partner or children are applying with you, you must provide proof of your relationship with them. Additionally, if you’re from a country listed as requiring tuberculosis testing, you will need to submit the results of this test.
In some cases, you might also be asked for evidence of your previous work experience with your employer overseas or details of your training programme. If your job involves sensitive research at a PhD level or higher, a valid ATAS certificate may be required.
Once you have submitted your application, you will need to prove your identity. The method for this depends on your nationality and the type of passport you have. In some cases, you’ll use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document, or you may need to attend an appointment at a visa application centre to have your fingerprints and photo taken. Be sure to check if an appointment is necessary for your application. If an appointment is required, the visa application centre may keep your passport and documents while processing your application.
The decision on your Graduate Trainee visa application will typically be made within three weeks. If your application requires additional processing, such as document verification or an interview, the process may take longer. You may also have the option to pay for a faster decision. Once a decision is made, you will receive an email with the outcome of your application and instructions on the next steps.
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].