Senior or Specialist Worker Visa UK

Understanding the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa UK

The Senior or Specialist Worker Visa is part of the UK’s Global Business Mobility (GBM) routes and is specifically designed for senior employees or specialists who are being transferred to a UK branch of their overseas employer. This visa replaces the former Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa and enables multinational organisations to deploy key personnel to the UK for strategic business roles.

At The McKenzie Friend, we offer expert support for both businesses and individual applicants — ensuring every stage of the application, from sponsorship compliance to final submission, is accurate, evidence-based, and aligned with Home Office guidance. Our goal is to make the relocation or internal transfer process smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for a Senior or Specialist Worker Visa if:

• You are an existing employee of an overseas business that is linked to a UK entity (by ownership or joint venture).
• You have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed UK sponsor authorised to use the GBM route.
• You have worked for your overseas employer for at least 12 months outside the UK, unless you earn £73,900 or more per year.
• You will perform a genuine role at an appropriate skill level and salary threshold.

Visa Duration and Extensions

The visa can initially be granted for up to 5 years and may be extended, subject to a maximum stay of 5 years in any 6-year period (or 9 years for higher-earning applicants). Each case must comply with the Home Office’s sponsorship and immigration time-limit rules.

Key Requirements and Conditions

• Certificate of Sponsorship: must confirm the job title, occupation code, and salary.
• Minimum Salary: usually £48,500 per year or the ‘going rate’ for the role (whichever is higher).
• English Language: no test is required for this route (unlike the Skilled Worker Visa).
• Financial Evidence: proof that you can support yourself unless your sponsor certifies maintenance.
• Health Surcharge: payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for NHS access during your stay.

Benefits of the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa

• Work legally in the UK for your sponsoring employer.
• Bring eligible dependants (spouse and children) to join you in the UK.
• Travel freely in and out of the country while your visa is valid.
• Switch to a different immigration route (e.g. Skilled Worker Visa) from within the UK if eligible.

Does This Visa Lead to Settlement?

While the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa does not directly lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the experience gained and time spent in the UK can help you transition to a settlement-eligible category later, such as the Skilled Worker route. Our team can help you plan ahead for long-term residency and permanent settlement strategies.

How We Can Help

We assist international employers, HR departments, and applicants with:

• Sponsor licence registration and compliance support.
• Reviewing eligibility and salary criteria before application.
• Preparing a complete document bundle for visa submission.
• Advising on dependant applications and subsequent extensions.

Our immigration guidance combines professional expertise with clear communication, ensuring your application meets Home Office standards and is approved as quickly as possible.