1. Introduction to the Global Business Mobility Visa
The Global Business Mobility Visa is a UK visa route introduced to streamline and facilitate the transfer of overseas employees to the UK within multinational companies. Designed for businesses needing to transfer skilled workers to the UK, the Global Mobility Visa offers five specific categories, each tailored to meet different business needs, such as senior-level transfers, internships, or overseas expansion projects.
2. Categories of the Global Business Mobility Visa
The Global Business Mobility Visa includes five main categories:
- Senior or Specialist Worker Visa: For senior executives or specialists moving to the UK for high-level roles in an overseas company branch.
- Graduate Trainee Visa: For recent graduates entering the UK for structured training programs or graduate placements.
- UK Expansion Worker Visa: For workers establishing a new branch of an overseas business in the UK.
- Service Supplier Visa: For overseas service suppliers entering the UK under international trade agreements.
- Secondment Worker Visa: For workers coming to the UK as part of high-value contracts or investments with UK-based companies.
Each category is intended to address the unique requirements of international businesses and employees.
3. Eligibility Requirements for the Global Business Mobility Visa
The specific eligibility requirements differ for each category, but general requirements include:
- Sponsorship: Applicants must be sponsored by a UK-licensed sponsor, generally their employer or an affiliated business branch.
- Job Role and Skills: The role must meet the UK’s skill level requirements, usually equivalent to RQF Level 6 (graduate level) or higher.
- Salary Requirements: Each category has a minimum salary requirement:
- Senior or Specialist Worker: Minimum annual salary of £42,400 or the going rate for the role.
- Graduate Trainee: Minimum salary of £23,100 or the going rate for the position.
- UK Expansion Worker: Salary should meet the minimum threshold relevant to the industry.
- Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Employers must issue a CoS through the Sponsor Management System for each applicant, valid for the visa application.
Meeting these requirements ensures a smooth application process.
4. Global Business Mobility Visa Categories Explained
Senior or Specialist Worker Visa
- Purpose: For senior-level or specialized employees transferring to the UK within a multinational organization.
- Visa Duration: Valid for up to 5 years with potential extensions up to 9 years (if meeting requirements).
Graduate Trainee Visa
- Purpose: For graduate trainees in structured programs, leading to management roles or specialized skills.
- Visa Duration: Valid for up to 12 months, without the option for extension.
UK Expansion Worker Visa
- Purpose: For employees involved in establishing a UK branch of an overseas business.
- Visa Duration: Valid for up to 1 year, with a possible 12-month extension.
Service Supplier Visa
- Purpose: For employees offering contractual services in the UK under trade agreements.
- Visa Duration: Varies depending on contract length, up to 5 years total.
Secondment Worker Visa
- Purpose: For individuals under high-value contracts between an overseas and a UK company.
- Visa Duration: Initially valid for up to 1 year, with potential extensions.
5. Application Process for the Global Business Mobility Visa
- Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): The employer issues a CoS for the employee via the Sponsor Management System.
- Complete the Online Visa Application: Applicants fill out the online application, pay relevant fees, and provide required documents.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: Submit biometrics and photographs at a visa application center.
- Wait for Decision: Processing times vary but generally take 3-8 weeks. Priority processing is available for an additional fee.
Applying early and preparing all required documents can help expedite the process.
6. Required Documents for the Global Business Mobility Visa
For a successful application, the following documents are typically needed:
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Issued by the UK employer.
- Proof of Employment: Job offer letter, employment contract, or training program details.
- Financial Documents: Proof of financial means if required (often around £1,270 in savings unless certified by the sponsor).
- Additional Documents: For specific categories, additional documentation related to the job role or project may be necessary.
7. Fees and Costs for the Global Business Mobility Visa
The Global Business Mobility Visa costs include:
- Visa Application Fee:
- Senior or Specialist Worker: £625 to £1,423, depending on visa length.
- Graduate Trainee: £259.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year.
- Sponsor Fees: Paid by the employer, which may also include a Sponsor License Fee and Certificate of Sponsorship fee (£199).
Budgeting for these fees is essential for both the employee and employer.
8. Pathway to Permanent Residency (ILR) for Global Business Mobility Visa Holders
The Global Business Mobility Visa does not directly lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, visa holders may qualify for ILR by switching to a different visa category, like the Skilled Worker Visa, after gaining relevant UK work experience. Ensuring continuous employment and visa compliance can aid in a smooth transition to long-term residency pathways.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I switch to a Global Business Mobility Visa from within the UK?
A: Yes, in some cases, applicants may switch if they meet all eligibility requirements. However, this depends on current visa type.
Q2: Does the Global Business Mobility Visa allow dependents?
A: Yes, dependents (spouse/partner and children under 18) can accompany or join the visa holder in the UK.
Q3: Can I work for another employer on this visa?
A: No, you are only permitted to work for the sponsoring employer and in the job role specified on your CoS.
Q4: What happens if I change employers?
A: A new CoS and visa application are required if you change employers, as this visa is tied to the specific sponsoring company.
Q5: Is the Global Business Mobility Visa a pathway to British citizenship?
A: No, this visa does not lead directly to ILR or citizenship, but you may switch to an ILR-eligible visa after meeting certain requirements.
Q6: Can Global Business Mobility Visa holders work part-time?
A: Generally, this visa is for full-time work. Any secondary job must meet UKVI’s conditions and usually be in the same role or on the UK shortage occupation list.