Step-by-Step Guide on UK Expansion Worker Visa

The UK Expansion Worker visa is designed for overseas companies without a UK presence to send senior executives or specialized workers to establish a new branch or subsidiary in the United Kingdom.

Here is a step-by-step guide on UK Expansion Worker Visa

Eligibility Criteria to Apply

To be eligible for UK Expansion Worker Visa, you will require:

• Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued by a licensed UK sponsor
• Be employed outside the UK for at least 12 months before arrival
• Hold a job on the Occupation Codes List
• Meet the minimum eligible salary requirement for your job
• Not have previously held a UK Expansion Worker visa for more than 12 months

Documentation Needed

When applying for a UK Expansion Worker visa, you will need to submit the following documents:

• A passport or other identification document
• Official document confirming your job title and annual salary
• Occupational Code of your job
• Bank statements proving sufficient funds to support yourself
• Relationship confirmation document (if applicable)
• Tuberculosis test result (for some countries)

Financial Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate that they have had the required amount of funds available for at least 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before submitting their application. For the financial requirement, you must have at least £1,270 per month if the sponsor is unable to certify maintenance under this route.

Fees and Healthcare Surcharge

There is a £259 application fee for the UK Expansion Worker visa. Additionally, you will need to pay an annual healthcare surcharge of £624 for each year of your stay.

Duration of Stay

Successful applicants will be granted leave to enter or remain in the UK for whichever is shorter of:

• The job on the sponsorship certificate must have been started 12 months after its start date.
• The time mentioned on the Certificate of Sponsorship should be added with 14 days.

After completing two years on the UK Expansion Worker visa, you may be able to extend your stay for an additional 12 months.

Dependents

Your partner and dependent children may accompany or join you in the UK if they meet the relevant eligibility criteria.

Visa Extension Process

To extend your stay beyond the initial two-year period, you must apply for an extension before your current visa expires.

Maximum Time Spent in the UK

Under the Global Business Mobility visa framework, you cannot spend more than six years in total across various visa categories, excluding short trips.

If you need help navigating the often complex and confusing immigration application process, it's important to seek the guidance of reputable legal firms that specialize in immigration law. By working with skilled immigration attorneys, you can receive personalized guidance and support to help you make informed decisions and achieve your goals. Whether you are applying for a visa, seeking permanent residency, or facing deportation, an experienced immigration lawyer can help you navigate the legal system with confidence.

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