Scale-up Visa

Who is the Scale-Up Visa for?

When a rapidly expanding UK-based business seeks to hire a highly skilled individual to contribute to its growth, sponsoring the candidate for a Scale-Up Visa is a viable option. The candidate is expected to commit to working for the UK business for a minimum of 6 months.

Who can sponsor a Scale-Up Visa?

To sponsor a candidate for this visa, a UK business must first obtain a Sponsor Licence under the Scale-Up category. The Home Office, as part of the Sponsor Licence application, will assess the annual growth of the UK business in terms of turnover and staff count to ensure it is rapidly expanding.

Are there any other requirements?

Individuals sponsored for this visa must demonstrate that the UK business will pay them a minimum gross annual salary of £33,000 and that they possess English language skills at an intermediate standard (B1 Level) in speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension.

Applicants also need to show they have sufficient funds to support themselves in the UK unless maintenance is certified by the sponsor.

How long is the visa valid for?

The initial visa is valid for 2 years, and the Scale-Up migrant is expected to work for the sponsoring UK business for at least the first 6 months. Extension of the visa for an additional 3 years may be possible if the individual has completed a minimum of 6 months of employment with their Scale-Up sponsor and continues to work in the UK, earning above the required threshold of £33,000 per year.

Can family members join?

Yes, a dependent spouse or partner, and dependent children under the age of 18 at the initial application date can be included.

Does the Scale-Up Visa lead to settlement?

Indeed, after 5 continuous years of residence in the UK under this visa route, it may be possible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain. The Home Office will verify that the Scale-Up migrant has been consistently working and earning in the UK throughout the relevant 5 years.

For more information about XT 24 and our personal immigration services, please contact a member of the team who can answer any questions and guide you through the process.