Senior or Specialist Worker Visa

For senior managers and specialist employees being assigned to a UK business that’s linked to their employer overseas and who wish to undertake a temporary assignment in the UK.

To qualify for a Senior or Specialist Worker visa, you must:

• Be currently working for a business or organisation that is linked to your UK sponsor by common ownership or control, or by a joint venture on which you are sponsored to work.

• Have worked outside the UK for the linked business or organisation for a cumulative period of at least 12 months.

• Have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from your employer.

• Do a job that’s on the list of eligible occupations.

• Be paid at least £45,800 per year and the ‘going rate’ for the job.

You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before the day you are due to start work in the UK. This date is listed on your certificate of sponsorship.

Get a decision on your visa within:

• 3 weeks, if you’re outside the UK.

• 8 weeks, if you’re inside the UK.