Service Supplier Visa

You can apply for a Service Supplier visa if you have a contract to provide services for a UK company, either as:

• an employee for an overseas company

• a self-employed professional based overseas

To be eligible for a Service Supplier visa, you must:

• Be an employee of an overseas business, or a self-employed service provider based overseas.

• Be providing a service to a UK business under a contract that is covered by a valid international trade agreement.

• Be doing an eligible job - if your job is not eligible you may still qualify if you have relevant qualifications and experience.

• Have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from your UK sponsor.

• Have worked for your employer for at least 12 months outside the UK, or have at least 12 months’ professional experience if you’re a self-employed service provider.

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.

You’ll usually get a decision on your visa within:

• 3 weeks, if you’re outside the UK.

• 8 weeks, if you’re inside the UK.