# UK Expansion Worker Visa: Requirements, Procedure and Guidance

The UK Expansion Worker visa, which is part of the Global Business Mobility (GBM) routes, is intended for senior management or specialist employees from overseas companies that are seeking to grow and set up an UK branch that hasn't opened for business yet.

This method isn't going to not result in permanent residence but allows temporary mobility, and also offers growth opportunities for businesses.

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## **Eligibility Criteria (As per Gov.uk)**
To be able to apply to apply for an UK Expansion Worker visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:

* **Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):** Hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved UK sponsor (an organization that is registered as a sponsor on the Home Office register of licensed sponsors).

* **Employment with an overseas employer:** Have worked for the employer outside of the UK for at minimum one year (unless exempt).

* **Employment Role Eligible** The job must be listed on the list of occupations that are eligible released by the Home Office. Home Office.

* **Salary Requirement** Pay must be at minimum PS48,500 per annum as well as more than the "going rate" for the job - or the higher. (Source: GOV.UK - UK Expansion Worker Salary Rules)

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## **Duration & Extensions**
* Initial visas are granted in the amount of twelve months or the period specified on the CoS or 14 consecutive days (whichever is less).

* It is possible to extend it to an additional 12 month period.

* Maximum stay of 2 years under this method.

**Note:** This option doesn't count towards an indefinite leave to remain (ILR).

## **Application Process**
The procedure consists of the steps listed below:

1. Online application You can apply through the official UK visa application portal.

2. Biometric Verification:

* Use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app or

* Visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC)

3. Supporting Documents:

* Reference to the Certificate of Sponsorship

* Documentation of employment and earnings

* Personal bank statements from banks (to demonstrate the amount of savings)

* Evidence of relationship (if dependents are required)

## Financial Requirements
**Candidates must:**

* Make sure they have at **minimum PS1,270 saved** in their personal savings (held for a minimum of 28 days prior to applying) in the event that the sponsor has a certificate of maintenance.

**Pay:**

* Application fee: PS298 (outside UK) / PS719 (inside UK)

* Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): PS1,035 per year

## Processing Time
**Outside UK:** Approximately 3 weeks

**Inside UK:** Up to 8 weeks

Super-priority or priority services may be available based the location of your residence.

## Family Members (Dependants)
Children and partners can apply to be a part of the primary visa holder when:

* They meet financial and relationship standards.

* They are dependents of the UK Expanding Worker.

## Restrictions Under This Visa
* Access for government funds (benefits)

* It is not possible to change employers without the need for a new visa

* Are unable to work other jobs.

* It is not possible to apply for indefinite leave of absence (ILR)

## Legal Help for Your Application
UK immigration law is complex. The Expansion Worker visa process is a strict adherence to regulations for sponsors and job eligibility.

In [Chisty Law Chambers](https://chistylawchambers.com/) We provide customized legal assistance for both companies and individuals applying under one of the Global Business Mobility routes, which includes:

Application for a Sponsor Licence

Expansion Worker visa assistance

Legal representation in the event in the event of refusals, or checks for compliance

Our legal experts are available to ensure that your move to the UK is smooth, secure and strategically safe.

Sources:

GOV.UK - UK Expansion Worker Visa official page

GOV.UK - Immigration Rules Appendix Global Business Mobility