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The Scale-up Worker visa is designed for individuals who have a job offer from a UK-based scale-up company recognized by the Home Office. This visa category is part of the skilled worker route, aimed at attracting talented professionals to contribute to the growth of fast-moving and innovative UK businesses. Applicants must have a confirmed job offer in an eligible role at the required skill level and salary threshold. The main purpose of this visa is to support the UK's innovation sector by making it easier for scale-up companies to recruit the talent they need from around the world.
Skilled Worker
The Scale-up Worker visa is designed for individuals who have a job offer from a UK-based scale-up company recognized by the Home Office. This visa category is part of the skilled worker route, aimed at attracting talented professionals to contribute to the growth of fast-moving and innovative UK businesses. Applicants must have a confirmed job offer in an eligible role at the required skill level and salary threshold. The main purpose of this visa is to support the UK's innovation sector by making it easier for scale-up companies to recruit the talent they need from around the world.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for the Scale-up Worker visa, including detailed requirements, step-by-step application process, required documents, costs, timeline, and expert tips for a successful application.
Varies by application type
Immigration Health Charge
Paid by employer
Per year (minimum)
The Scale-up Worker visa is a UK immigration route for skilled professionals aiming to work with fast-growing companies in the UK. Applicants must have a job offer from a UK scale-up business that holds a valid sponsorship license, a minimum annual salary offer of £33,000, English proficiency, sufficient maintenance funds, and a clean criminal record.
FeaturedA 'scale-up' company is a high-growth business that is recognized by the UK Home Office. These companies are typically experiencing rapid growth and are listed on the official register of licensed sponsors. To sponsor a Scale-up Worker visa, the company must have the appropriate sponsor license from the Home Office.
FeaturedYou can prove your English proficiency by passing an approved English language test at CEFR Level B1 or higher. Alternatively, holding a degree taught in English or being a national from a majority English-speaking country may exempt you from this requirement.
FeaturedTo prove English proficiency at CEFR Level B1, you can submit an approved English language test result or provide evidence of an academic qualification that was taught in English. Accepted tests include IELTS for UKVI and Trinity College London’s SELT. If your degree was taught in English, you might need a statement from Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) confirming this.
FeaturedYou will need a certificate of sponsorship reference number from your employer, a valid passport or travel document, evidence of your salary offer (such as a job contract), proof of English proficiency, financial evidence showing at least £1,270 in savings, and a clean criminal record certificate.
FeaturedThe Scale-up Worker visa application process typically takes 8 to 12 weeks from the date of submission. It's important to ensure all your documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays. Processing times can vary depending on the current workload of the Home Office.
FeaturedPossible tightening of eligibility criteria to ensure alignment with the UK's skills needs and economic priorities.
8/16/2025