The UK Expansion Worker Visa is a vital route for businesses looking to establish a presence in the UK market. This visa is part of the Global Business Mobility (GBM) route, which enables overseas companies to send senior employees to the UK to oversee the expansion of their operations.
If you are an employee of an international company planning to expand into the UK, understanding the application process, eligibility criteria, required documents, and compliance rules is essential. This guide provides a step-by-step explanation of how to apply for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, covering key requirements and practical tips for a successful application.
What Is the UK Expansion Worker Visa?
The UK Expansion Worker Visa allows senior employees of a foreign company to enter and work in the UK to help set up a new UK branch or subsidiary. Unlike the Skilled Worker Visa, this visa does not lead to permanent residency, but it is an excellent option for companies that are not yet trading in the UK but wish to expand.
Key Features of the UK Expansion Worker Visa:
✔ For senior managers or specialists expanding a business into the UK.
✔ Valid for up to 2 years (with a maximum stay of 5 years in 6 years across all GBM visas).
✔ Sponsorship from a UK entity required.
✔ Does not lead to settlement, but applicants can switch to other visa routes.
✔ Requires a minimum salary threshold and a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
This visa replaced the Sole Representative Visa, which previously allowed companies to send employees to the UK for business expansion.
Who Can Apply for the UK Expansion Worker Visa?
To be eligible for the UK Expansion Worker Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria related to sponsorship, employment status, salary, and financial requirements.
1. Employment Requirement
✔ You must be an existing employee of an overseas company that is expanding into the UK.
✔ You must have worked for the company for at least 12 months unless you meet the salary exemption.
2. Sponsorship Requirement
✔ Your employer must be a licensed UK sponsor under the Global Business Mobility (GBM) route.
✔ You need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer.
3. Salary Requirement
✔ Your salary must be at least £45,800 per year or £22.58 per hour.
✔ If your occupation is listed as a Shortage Occupation, different salary rules may apply.
4. Financial Requirement
✔ You must have at least £1,270 in savings in your bank account for at least 28 days before applying.
✔ If your employer is covering your expenses, they must confirm this in the Certificate of Sponsorship.
5. Business Expansion Requirement
✔ The company you work for must be actively planning to expand into the UK but has no existing trading presence.
✔ The business must have a UK “footprint”, such as a registered address or legal entity, but no active operations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the UK Expansion Worker Visa
Step 1: Ensure Your Employer Has a UK Sponsor License
Your employer must obtain a Sponsor License under the Expansion Worker category before issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
✔ The UK-based sponsor must prove that they are linked to the overseas business.
✔ The employer needs to demonstrate an expansion plan for the UK.
✔ Without a valid sponsorship license, employees cannot apply for this visa.
Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
✔ Your UK employer will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), a unique reference number required for your visa application.
✔ The CoS must include:
- Your job title and description.
- Your salary details.
- Your work location in the UK.
- Confirmation of the company’s expansion into the UK.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
To complete your visa application, you need to submit several supporting documents:
✔ Valid Passport or Travel Document (with at least 6 months validity).
✔ Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Reference Number.
✔ Proof of employment (contract showing at least 12 months of prior employment).
✔ Evidence of financial savings (£1,270 in a UK bank account or employer confirmation).
✔ TB Test Certificate (if applying from a country where a tuberculosis test is required).
✔ Proof of company expansion (business registration details, UK office location).
✔ For Dependents (if applicable):
- Marriage certificate (for spouses).
- Birth certificates (for children).
- Proof of sufficient funds to support dependents.
Tip: Ensure all documents are translated into English if they are in another language.
Step 4: Submit the Online Visa Application
✔ Go to the UK Home Office website and complete the UK Expansion Worker Visa application form.
✔ Pay the visa application fee (£259 per person).
✔ Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) (typically £624 per year).
Step 5: Book a Biometric Appointment
✔ After submitting your application, schedule an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (VAC).
✔ Provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) as part of the identity verification process.
Step 6: Await the Visa Decision
✔ Standard processing times are 3–8 weeks, depending on the country of application.
✔ Priority services are available for faster decisions (5–10 working days).
How Long Can You Stay on a UK Expansion Worker Visa?
✔ The visa is granted for 1 year initially and can be extended for another 12 months.
✔ Maximum stay: 2 years on this route (5 years total across all Global Business Mobility visas).
✔ If you need longer-term work options, consider switching to a Skilled Worker Visa.
Can You Bring Your Family on a UK Expansion Worker Visa?
✔ Yes, your spouse and children can apply as dependents.
✔ Each dependent must pay their own visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
✔ You must prove financial support (£285 for spouse, £315 for one child, £200 per additional child).
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
Visa applications may be rejected for the following reasons:
❌ Employer lacks a UK sponsor license.
❌ Insufficient proof of employment or salary requirements.
❌ Incorrect or missing documents.
❌ Not enough financial funds to support stay.
❌ Failure to prove business expansion plans.
✔ To avoid rejection, double-check your application and ensure your employer completes all sponsorship requirements.
What Happens If Your Application Is Rejected?
If your application is denied, you have several options:
✔ Apply for an Administrative Review – If you believe the rejection was a mistake.
✔ Submit a new application – Correct any errors and reapply.
✔ Seek legal advice – If complex issues arise, consult an immigration expert.
Can You Switch to Another Visa from a UK Expansion Worker Visa?
✔ Yes, but you must meet eligibility for the new visa type.
✔ Common options:
- Skilled Worker Visa (for long-term employment).
- Innovator Visa (for business owners).
- Global Talent Visa (for industry leaders).
Conclusion
The UK Expansion Worker Visa is an excellent opportunity for senior employees to establish a company presence in the UK. By following the correct application process, meeting salary and sponsorship requirements, and submitting accurate documentation, you can successfully secure this visa.
If your company is looking to expand into the UK, this visa provides a clear pathway for experienced professionals to manage operations and facilitate business growth. Proper planning and compliance with UK immigration rules will ensure a smooth application process and successful transition into the UK workforce.
Zara Adeyemi