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The UK Expansion Worker Visa provides a strategic pathway for overseas companies wishing to expand their operations into the UK. This visa allows skilled workers to be transferred from their overseas offices to help establish or grow a UK branch or subsidiary. It is part of the UK’s post-Brexit immigration system, designed to ensure that businesses have access to the talent they need to thrive in the UK market.
As the application process for this visa can be complex, Fast Track Consultancy offers professional, tailored guidance to support both businesses and employees. Our team of immigration experts ensures that all aspects of the application meet Home Office standards, providing businesses with the confidence they need to expand their operations in the UK.
The UK Expansion Worker Visa is a visa route designed for skilled workers transferring to the UK to assist in the expansion of an overseas business. This visa is ideal for employees tasked with supporting the opening or development of a UK branch of their company. The visa is granted for up to 12 months initially, with options for extension.
The key features of this visa include:
- Duration: Typically granted for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extension.
- Eligibility: Applicants must meet specific skill and salary requirements.
- Employer Responsibility: Employers must hold a valid sponsor license and offer a genuine role.
- Pathway to Settlement: After a qualifying period, workers may apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR).
Employer Requirements
For a business to sponsor an employee under the UK Expansion Worker Visa, it must first meet several key criteria:
- Sponsor License: The employer must have a valid sponsor license issued by the Home Office. This is a requirement for any company wishing to hire foreign workers under the immigration system.
- Genuine Expansion Plans: The business must be involved in expanding its operations into the UK, which could involve setting up a new office or growing an existing UK branch.
- Salary Requirements: The employer must ensure that the offered salary meets or exceeds the Home Office's threshold, which is typically £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour, depending on the job’s occupation code.
- Occupation Code: The role must meet the skill level requirement, as specified in the occupation codes outlined by the Home Office. This ensures that the role is skilled and necessary for the expansion process.
Employee Requirements
The employee must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the UK Expansion Worker Visa:
- Job Offer: The employee must have a genuine job offer from a licensed sponsor.
- Skill Level: The position must be at RQF Level 3 or above (equivalent to A-level or higher), ensuring that the worker has the necessary skills for the role.
- Salary: The offered salary must meet the minimum threshold required by the Home Office.
- English Language Requirement: Applicants must show proficiency in English, either through passing a language test or by demonstrating that their degree was taught in English.
- Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves upon arrival in the UK unless their sponsor certifies their maintenance.
- Tuberculosis Testing: In some cases, applicants from specific countries are required to undergo tuberculosis testing.
- Access to Skilled Talent: Businesses can hire qualified workers from abroad to assist in their UK expansion plans.
- Growth Potential: This visa route facilitates the development and scaling of business operations in the UK.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: After spending a sufficient period in the UK, workers may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), providing long-term opportunities.
- Flexibility for Employers and Workers: The UK Expansion Worker Visa allows employees to potentially switch employers if they remain within the same occupation code, offering flexibility for both businesses and workers.
The application process involves several steps, each requiring careful attention to detail. Fast Track Consultancy can guide you through the process, ensuring that every requirement is met.
Step 1: Obtain a Sponsor License
Before an employee can apply for a UK Expansion Worker Visa, the business must secure a valid sponsor license from the Home Office. The sponsor license application involves providing detailed information about the company’s structure, its operations, and its expansion plans in the UK.
Step 2: Secure a Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship
Once the business holds a valid sponsor license, it can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the employee. This certificate confirms that the employee is being hired for a genuine role within the UK expansion. The CoS must detail the job offer, salary, and responsibilities, and it is a key document in the visa application.
Step 3: Submit the Visa Application
The employee must submit an online application for the UK Expansion Worker Visa. This involves providing personal and professional details, including educational history and proof of the job offer. The application also requires payment of the visa fee and the immigration health surcharge.
Step 4: Attend Biometrics Appointment
Applicants must attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph. This is a standard procedure to verify the identity of the applicant.
Step 5: Await Visa Decision
Once the application and biometrics have been submitted, the Home Office will process the application. Processing times vary, but the applicant will typically receive a decision within a few weeks.
At Fast Track Consultancy, we understand the challenges businesses face when navigating the immigration process. Our experienced team is here to provide comprehensive support for both employers and employees applying for the UK Expansion Worker Visa.
Our services include:
- Sponsor License Application: Assistance with obtaining a sponsor license and ensuring compliance with Home Office requirements.
- Visa Application Support: Full support for employees applying for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, from document preparation to submission.
- Ongoing Compliance: Guidance on maintaining compliance with UK immigration laws throughout the duration of the visa.
- Tailored Advice: Our team offers expert advice specific to your business and expansion goals, helping you make informed decisions.
FIELDS OF EXPERTISE
Fast Track Consultancy simplifies sponsor licence applications with tailored legal solutions, ensuring compliance with strict Home Office requirements.
Our team of immigration lawyers at Fast Track Consultancy simplifies the complexities of UK immigration law, providing expert legal solutions for businesses applying for or maintaining a Sponsor Licence. With our deep understanding of Home Office regulations, we ensure a smooth and compliant process, minimizing risks and maximizing approval success. Our dedicated team offers end-to-end support, from initial applications and renewals to compliance management. We proactively identify potential challenges, provide strategic guidance, and help businesses prepare for audits and inspections, ensuring they confidently meet all legal requirements.
Our services include Sponsor Licence Application Support, where we handle documentation, submission, and Home Office requirements; Sponsor Licence Renewal, ensuring timely and compliant renewals; and Compliance Audit & Training, offering in-depth audits, HR training, and policy development to prevent compliance breaches. Additionally, we assist with Immigration for Skilled Workers, helping businesses recruit and sponsor international talent while navigating the complexities of visa applications.
At Fast Track Consultancy, we streamline the immigration processes, handling all complexities with expertise so you can focus on scaling your business with confidence. Our dedicated team ensures a smooth, hassle-free experience, guiding you every step of the way.
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Fast Track Consultancy simplifies UK employer sponsor license regulations, providing expert guidance to navigate the process confidently in three easy steps.
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Businesses guided through complex immigration regulations in 2024.
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