UK expansion worker visa

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Global mobility routes

UK expansion worker visa
Senior or specialist worker visa
Graduate trainee visa
Secondment worker visa
Service supplier visa

The UK expansion worker visa is a subcategory of the global business mobility route. It enables senior employees of overseas businesses to establish a branch or subsidiary in the UK, where no trading presence currently exists.

This route is widely used by international companies seeking to test the UK market or transition from representative office arrangements to a fully licensed UK entity.

Our solicitors advise businesses and applicants on meeting eligibility requirements, securing sponsorship, and preparing strong visa applications.

Eligibility requirements

Applicants must:

• Work for an overseas business that has no active branch or subsidiary in the UK.
• Have a confirmed job offer in an eligible senior role.
• Be assigned a certificate of sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK sponsor.
• Show they have worked for the overseas business for at least 12 months (with limited exceptions).
• Have enough personal funds to support themselves (unless exempt).
• Meet the new B2 English language requirement if applying from 8 January 2026 onwards.
• Ensure the sponsor meets the updated suitability and compliance standards under HC 1333.

Application process

• Step 1 – Sponsorship: The overseas employer applies for a sponsor licence and assigns a CoS.
   
• Step 2 – Visa application: Submit the online form, pay the visa fee and immigration health surcharge, and provide supporting documents.
   
• Step 3 – Decision: Applications are usually decided within three weeks when made outside the UK.

Length of stay

The visa is valid for up to 12 months initially and may be extended for a maximum of 24 months in total.

Settlement

This route does not lead directly to settlement, but applicants may switch to other visa categories, such as skilled worker or innovator founder, that can lead to indefinite leave to remain.

How we help

We support businesses and individuals by:

• Advising on eligibility and sponsorship requirements.
• Preparing and submitting applications.
• Ensuring compliance with Home Office rules.
• Advising on next steps towards long-term UK residence.
• Helping businesses align expansion plans with sponsor licence and compliance obligations under the new Home Office inspection standards.

Why choose us

Our solicitors combine business immigration expertise with commercial insight. We work with employers and staff across sectors to deliver practical, compliant solutions for UK expansion.

Contact our business immigration solicitors today for advice on UK expansion worker visas.