Global Talent Visa

The Global Talent Visa is designed for highly skilled individuals in fields such as science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology, and the arts. It provides a pathway for exceptional talent to come to the UK and contribute to the country’s innovation, research, and development. The visa is part of the UK’s points-based immigration system and is intended for individuals who are leaders or emerging leaders in their respective fields.

This visa can lead to settlement in the UK if you meet the eligibility criteria and reside in the UK for a specified period.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Global Talent Visa, you must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that:

• You are aged 18 or over.
• You have been endorsed as a leader or emerging leader in your field by an approved endorsing body.
• You meet the specific criteria for your field, such as having significant achievements, awards, or recognition in your area of expertise.
• You can provide evidence of your talent, which may include awards, media recognition, or publications.
• You meet the English language requirement, unless exempt.
• You have sufficient funds to support yourself without relying on public funds.

Duration of Stay

You can stay in the UK with a Global Talent Visa for:

• Up to 5 years, depending on the endorsement you have received.
• You can apply to extend your visa or switch to another immigration route if you meet the requirements.

After living in the UK for a certain period (usually 3-5 years), you may be eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) if you meet the criteria.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before your job start date in the UK. As part of your application, you will need to:

• Prove your identity.
• Provide the required documents, including your endorsement letter from an approved endorsing body.
• You may need an appointment to complete this process, which can add time to your application. You will be informed if an appointment is necessary.

Decision Timeframe

• 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
• 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Work for any employer in the UK, or be self-employed.
• Engage in voluntary work.
• Study.
• Bring your partner and children as dependants, if eligible.
• Travel abroad and return to the UK.
• Apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) after 3-5 years, depending on your circumstances.

What You Cannot Do:

• Apply for most benefits (public funds) or the state pension.
• Change jobs unless you meet eligibility criteria and update your visa.
• Apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) without meeting the specific requirements.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Global Talent visa application process seamless and stress-free!