Government Authorised Exchange Visa

The Government Authorised Exchange Visa allows individuals to come to the UK temporarily for work experience, training, or research as part of an approved government-authorized exchange scheme. This visa is part of the Temporary Work visa routes and is designed to foster international collaboration and skills development.

This visa does not lead to settlement in the UK and is intended solely for temporary work or training purposes.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Government Authorised Exchange Visa, you must:

• Be aged 18 or over.
• Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK sponsor participating in an approved exchange scheme.
• Be coming to the UK for an eligible activity, such as:
  • Work experience.
  • Training.
  • Research.
  • Fellowship programs.
• Have at least £1,270 in your bank account to support yourself in the UK, unless your sponsor confirms they will cover your costs during your first month.
• Intend to leave the UK at the end of your visa.

Duration of Stay

The Government Authorised Exchange Visa allows you to stay in the UK for:

• Up to 12 or 24 months, depending on the specific exchange scheme, or
• The time specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.

Extensions are possible within the same exchange scheme, provided the total stay does not exceed the maximum allowed duration.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a Government Authorised Exchange Visa up to 3 months before your job or activity start date as listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship. As part of your application, you will need to:

• Prove your identity.
• Provide required documents, including:
  • Your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
  • Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself.
• Attend an appointment to provide biometric information if required.

Decision Timeframe

• 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Work or engage in the activity described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Study as part of your approved program.
• Travel abroad and return to the UK during your visa’s validity.

What You Cannot Do:

• Take a permanent job.
• Apply for most benefits (public funds) or the state pension.
• Bring family members (dependents) unless they apply separately.
• Apply to settle permanently in the UK.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Government Authorised Exchange Visa application process seamless and stress-free!