Regulated by the Immigration Advice Authority · Ref No. F201700062
Work Visas
Global Talent is for people recognised as leaders, or potential leaders, in eligible fields.
It usually involves an endorsement stage followed by the immigration application, and the endorsement evidence needs careful thought.
Global Talent is for leaders and potential leaders in academia and research, arts and culture, and digital technology. There is no employer sponsorship, no job offer requirement and no minimum salary. You are free to change employer, work for yourself, or combine roles.
Most applicants need endorsement from an approved body before applying for the visa. Some holders of qualifying prestigious prizes can apply directly.
Endorsing bodies distinguish between exceptional talent, for those already recognised as leaders, and exceptional promise, for those early in their career showing the potential to become leaders.
The evidence expected is field-specific: publications, citations and research funding in academia; exhibitions, reviews and commissions in the arts; product impact, growth and technical contribution in digital technology. Recommendation letters carry real weight and need to be from the right people, saying the right things, with specifics.
Settlement is available after three years for those endorsed under exceptional talent in most fields, and after five years for exceptional promise, subject to the absence and other requirements.
What is actually needed depends on your circumstances. We confirm the list with you before anything is prepared.
We start with your history, your relationships, your work and your time in the UK. The right route follows from the facts.
We explain which route fits, what it requires and what the realistic alternatives are if it does not.
We work out what the Home Office will expect, what you already have and what needs to be obtained.
We prepare the application, explain anything that needs explaining and advise on what happens after submission.
This page is general information about UK immigration and is not advice on your individual circumstances. Requirements, guidance and procedures change. Please obtain advice before relying on anything published here.
We will tell you how UKU can assist, and what the realistic options are.
