Secondment Worker Visa

The Secondment Worker visa allows employees from overseas companies to come to the UK temporarily to work for a UK business on secondment. This visa is part of the Global Business Mobility routes and is designed for individuals who are being temporarily assigned to the UK to carry out work on behalf of their employer as part of a secondment agreement.

This visa does not directly lead to settlement in the UK. However, you may be able to switch to another immigration route that could lead to settlement if you meet the requirements.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Secondment Worker Visa, you must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that:

• You are aged 18 or over.
• You are employed by an overseas business that has a contractual agreement with a UK-based business.
• You are being seconded to the UK for a temporary period to work for the UK-based business.
• You have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued by your UK sponsor for the role you will be undertaking.
• The role you are being seconded for is skilled to at least RQF Level 6 (graduate equivalent).
• You meet the salary requirements for the role, which are typically at least £23,100 per year or the ‘going rate’ for the job, whichever is higher.
• You have sufficient funds to support yourself without relying on public funds.
• You have provided a valid TB certificate, if required.

Duration of Stay

You can stay in the UK with a Secondment Worker visa for whichever is shorter of:

• The duration specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days.
• 12 months in total.

Extensions are not available under this visa, but you may be able to switch to another visa category if you meet the requirements.

Application Process

Timeline

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

• Prove your identity.
• Provide the required documents.
• 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 your sponsor in the role described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Study.
• Bring your partner and children as dependants, if eligible.
• Travel abroad and return to the UK.

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) in the UK.

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