Individual Visas
Global Talent Visa
What is the Global Talent Visa?
In the wake of Brexit, many types of visas to the UK were discontinued, and in response, the UK introduced a new type of visa called the Global Talent Visa, which allows talented individuals to migrate to the UK. This visa is open to individuals aged 18 or over who possess exceptional talent in the fields of science, engineering, digital technology, arts, and culture, or who show exceptional promise of future success. The UK aims to attract talented and successful individuals to its country in order to create a strong intellectual base and increase its cultural diversity.
Who can apply?
To apply for this visa, individuals must meet the following basic requirements:
√ Be endorsed as a recognized leader in their chosen field of expertise (exceptional talent); or
√ Be endorsed as a rising leader in their chosen field of expertise (exceptional promise); or
√ Be supported by a UK Research and Innovation-supported funding option.
Applications in this visa category are evaluated in two stages to ensure that only individuals with exceptional talent are granted this visa. The evaluation process includes an endorsement stage and a visa application stage.
The standards and evaluation of what constitutes a "talented" individual are subjective and open to interpretation. To prevent any misunderstandings, the UK has implemented a two-stage process that includes an endorsement stage to determine whether the individual has the potential to be a leader or successful in their field. The second stage is the visa application stage, which can be completed once the endorsement letter has been obtained.
What are the benefits?
The Global Talent Visa has several advantages, including not requiring sponsorship, not requiring English language proficiency, not having a minimum salary threshold, and not requiring a minimum savings amount. With this visa, the applicant can work in an employer or self-employed position, change jobs without notifying the UK Home Office, volunteer, travel outside of the UK, and bring family members to the UK. Spouses and children can be included in the application as family members, and they will also have the right to work and study in the UK. The applicant can choose to have the visa for up to five years. If the applicant is in the "talented" category, they can apply for indefinite leave to remain after three years, and if they are in the "promise" category, they can apply for indefinite leave to remain after five years.