UK Expansion Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility) Overview 2026

The UK Expansion Worker visa is designed for employees of overseas companies who want to establish a new branch or subsidiary in the UK where the business has not yet started trading.

This route allows senior managers or specialist employees to enter the UK temporarily to set up operations. If the company is already trading in the UK, another route under the Global Business Mobility framework would be more appropriate.

It is important to note that this visa does not lead directly to settlement, but switching to other long-term visa routes may be possible later.

UK Expansion Worker Visa Application Guide

The UK Expansion Worker visa allows overseas businesses to expand into the UK market by sending key personnel to establish a new presence.

To apply, the UK entity must hold a valid sponsor licence under this visa category and assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the applicant.

Key point:

  • The job must be genuine and meet skill and salary requirements
  • The role must be at least RQF Level 6
  • This visa route does not directly lead to permanent residence

Eligibility Requirements for UK Expansion Worker Visa

To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:

  • Must be 18 years or older
  • Must currently work for a business linked to the UK expansion entity
  • Must meet one of the overseas work experience conditions:
    • Worked for the employer outside the UK for at least 12 months, OR
    • Earn at least £73,900 per year, OR
    • Be a Japanese national employed by a Japanese business expanding into the UK
  • Must hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed UK sponsor
  • Must be offered a genuine skilled role
  • Job must be at RQF Level 6 or above
  • Salary must meet at least £45,800 per year and the going rate
  • Must meet TB testing requirements if applicable
  • Must show financial support or employer maintenance certification

Requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances.

UK Expansion Worker Skill Level

Applicants must score 60 points based on sponsorship, skill level, and salary.

Points are allocated as follows:

  • 20 points for a skilled job at the required level
  • Job must be listed under eligible occupation codes in Appendix Skilled Occupations
  • If requirements are not met, the application will be refused

This ensures only qualified senior or specialist employees are eligible for this route.

Salary at the Required Level

To qualify, applicants must meet both salary conditions:

  • Minimum general salary threshold: £45,800 per year (Senior or Specialist Workers)
  • Must also meet the going rate for the specific occupation

Important conditions:

  • Salary cannot be reduced based on part-time hours
  • Only guaranteed salary is considered (not bonuses or allowances)
  • Graduate Trainee roles may have a lower threshold of £24,220

Financial Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate financial stability unless exempt.

You can meet the requirement through one of the following:

  • Having £1,270 in savings held for 28 consecutive days, OR
  • Employer certifies maintenance support up to £1,270 for the first month

Exemptions apply if:

  • You have already been living in the UK for 12 months or more on a valid visa

Certificate of Sponsorship

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is mandatory for this visa.

Key details:

  • Issued by an approved UK sponsor
  • Created through the sponsorship management system (SMS)
  • Contains job details including role, salary, and start date
  • Includes a unique reference number required for application

Without a valid CoS, the application cannot proceed.

How Long You Can Stay in the UK

Initial stay duration is determined by the CoS:

  • Maximum of 12 months from job start date, OR
  • CoS duration plus 14 days, whichever is shorter

Extension rules:

  • Visa can be extended by 12 months
  • Maximum stay allowed is 2 years total under this route

Long-term restrictions:

  • Maximum 5 years in any 6-year period across Global Business Mobility routes

How to Apply

The application is completed online and depends on your situation:

  • Applying from outside the UK
  • Extending an existing visa inside the UK
  • Switching from another eligible visa category

Family members may apply as dependants if eligible.

How Long It Takes

Application timing depends on preparation:

  • You can apply up to 3 months before job start date
  • Processing time varies after submission
  • Biometric appointments may be required depending on location

Applicants should allow additional time if document verification is needed.

How Much It Costs

Applicants must be prepared for the following costs:

  • Application fee: £259
  • Immigration Health Surcharge: £624 per year
  • Financial maintenance requirement: £1,270 (if applicable)

Additional notes:

  • Fees are payable at the time of application
  • Health surcharge is calculated based on visa duration
  • Exact total cost is confirmed during application submission

The UK Expansion Worker visa is a short-term business expansion route designed for experienced employees setting up new operations. While it does not directly lead to settlement, it can serve as an important step for international business expansion into the UK market.

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