Different Types of UK Work Visas Opportunities
The option of work visa for uk is been widen since Brexit. UK Govt has seen a number of changes in its immigration system, majorly in terms of how applicants from the EU and even the rest of the world apply for work visas. In 2024, the UK uses the points-based immigration system where the applicant is assessed on their skills, salary, job offer, and the level of demand of that particular job in the UK.
Work visas are very important for both professionals and businesses:
- For companies: Work visas allow them to hire skilled workers from other countries for jobs in high-demand areas like healthcare, technology and engineering.
- For individuals: These visas offer a chance to build a career in the UK and, in some cases lead to permanent residency
Recent Changes Seen in Visa’s:
- Introduction of new visa routes like the Scale-Up Visa and the Innovator Founder Visa.
- Focusing on attracting highly skilled professionals, researchers & entrepreneurs.
- Opportunities for temporary and long-term work in various sectors.
Here we are focusing on following points
- Different types of UK work visas in 2024.
- Eligibility requirements for each visa.
- How some visas can lead to permanent residency.
Types of UK Work Visas in 2024
Skilled Worker Visa (Formerly Tier 2 General Visa)
The Skilled Worker Visa is one of the most important work visas by way of being perhaps the most common in the UK, especially after Brexit. It replaced the Tier 2 General Visa and is applicable for those who have a job offer from a UK-based employer. This visa allows skilled workers from overseas to work in the UK for an approved employer who holds a sponsorship license. Important details :
- Eligibility : You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer. This employer needs to be registered as a sponsor with the UK government. The job should be on the list of eligible occupations, and it must meet a certain skill level (which is like having a qualification equivalent to A-levels, similar to the 12th standard in India).
- Salary Threshold : You’ll usually need to be paid the ‘standard’ salary rate of at least £38,700 per year, or the ‘going rate’ for your job, whichever is higher.
- English Language : You need to have well English fluency. This can be done either by taking an English language test or if you have a degree that was taught in English, you can use that as proof.
- Validity: The visa is usually valid for up to 5 years. You can extend it if you want to stay longer. After completing 5 years in the UK on this visa then you can apply for permanent residency, Which is commonly known as Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent Visa is targeting anyone with special skills in science, engineering, digital technology, arts, and culture. Such a visa is relevant to inviting leaders or potential ones in their field to settle and work in the UK without necessarily having an opportunity for employment.
- Eligibility: In order to apply for this visa, you do not need a job offer. Instead, you will be endorsed as an established leader (Exceptional Talent) or emerging leader (Exceptional Promise) in your field.
- Endorsement Process: To apply under this visa you first need to get endorsed by a recognized body in your field. This means you’ll need to show a track record of achievements and contributions in your field of work. This involves submitting documents that prove your expertise such as awards or published work or contributions to your field.
- Salary Threshold: The Global Talent Visa does not require a specific salary threshold or employer sponsorship. You can work for any employer or be self-employee even you can start your own business.
- Validity: The visa can be granted for 3 to 5 years, and it can be renewed. You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), which allows permanent residency in the UK
Intra-Company Transfer Visa (ICT Visa)
The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa is meant for employees of multinational companies who are being transfer to a UK branch or office of their company. This visa is specifically design to allow companies to move their skilled employees between different countries without needing to hire new staff in the UK.
- Eligibility: To apply for this visa, you must already be working for a company that has an office in the UK and is willing to transfer you to their UK branch. The company must hold a valid sponsorship license from the UK government.
- Validity: Applicants can come to the UK with a Intra-company Transfer visa for up to the maximum stay allowed for their visa type, or the time given on their certificate of sponsorship, whichever is shorter.The
maximum stay for each type of Intra-company Transfer visa is:
- Intra-company transfer (if earning more than £120,000 a year): 9 years;
- Intra-company transfer (if earning less than £120,000 a year): 5 years, 1 month;
- Intra-company Graduate Trainee: 12 months.
Note : Unlike other visas such as the Skilled Worker Visa, the ICT Visa does not provide a direct path to permanent residency
International Agreement visa (Temporary Work)
You can apply for a Temporary Work – International Agreement visa if you’ll be have a contract to do work covered by international law or treaty while in the UK. This includes working:
- for an overseas government or ‘recognised international organisation’
- as a private servant in a diplomatic household
You can apply for a Temporary Work – International Agreement visa if you:
- have a certificate of sponsorship reference number
- have enough money to support yourself in the UK – You need to have at least £1,270 available (unless you’re exempt)
- are 18 or over when you apply
Your employer must make sure your job pays at least the minimum wage and follows the UK rules for how many hours a week you work. If your employer does not do this, your application will be refuse.
Other UK Work-Related Visas
New Visa Routes and Categories in 2024
UK introduced new visa routes and revised existing categories to meet its changing economic and labor needs. These visa routes are primarily aim at attracting highly skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and individuals. The aim to support their industries like technology, research, and business innovation. Below are some of the significant visa categories and new routes introduced in 2024.
Scale-up Visa
The Scale-up Visa is design for fast-growing UK businesses, allowing them to bring in skilled workers who can help them grow and scale rapidly. It made to companies that have experienced a high level of growth and require skilled professionals to sustain that momentum.
- Eligibility: You must have confirmed job offer to work for an approved scale-up business for at least 6 months. A ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from your employer with information about the role you’ve been offeres in the UK
- Validity : You can stay in the UK with a Scale-up Worker visa for 2 years. You’ll need to apply to extend your visa when it expires.
Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder Visa, introduced in 2024, is an updated version of the earlier Innovator Visa. This aimed at experienced entrepreneurs looking to establish and run innovative businesses in the UK. Your business or business idea has been endorse by an approved body, also known as an endorsing body
- Eligibility : You cannot join an existing business; your idea must be original and different from anything in the market. It should be viable, with growth potential, and scalable, with plans for job creation and expansion into national and international markets.
- Validity : Initially granted for 3 years, with the possibility of renewal.
Let FederPath guide you every step of the way! Our expert team makes the process simple and stress-free. Contact us today and take the first step towards securing your visa with confidence!