Question 1

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship and how do I obtain one for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document issued by a UK-based sponsor that details your role and confirms your employment for the UK Expansion Worker visa. It is not a paper certificate but a reference number that you need for your visa application. Your employer in the UK must be a registered sponsor and will apply for this certificate on your behalf. Ensure that your job details are correctly listed to match the visa requirements.

Question 2

What is the primary purpose of the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

The UK Expansion Worker visa is designed for senior managers or specialist employees of overseas businesses that are expanding into the UK. Its primary purpose is to allow these key personnel to assist in establishing a branch or subsidiary in the UK market.

Question 3

How long does the UK Expansion Worker visa application process take?

Accepted Answer

The decision for the UK Expansion Worker visa application is typically made within three weeks after your biometrics appointment. However, processing times can vary depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your application. It's advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel to the UK to accommodate any potential delays.

Question 4

Who can apply for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Applicants must be employed by an overseas business that intends to expand its operations into the UK. They should hold a senior managerial or specialist role and have worked for the company outside the UK for at least 12 months, unless they qualify as high earners.

Question 5

What are the specific salary requirements for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

The UK Expansion Worker visa requires a minimum salary of £42,000 per year. This salary must be based on guaranteed basic pay and cannot include bonuses, allowances, or any non-guaranteed earnings. Ensure you have documentation such as employment contracts and payroll records to support your salary claim.

Question 6

What are the salary requirements for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Applicants must earn a minimum annual salary of £42,000. This can include allowances, provided they are guaranteed and do not exceed 30% of the total salary package.

Question 7

Am I eligible for permanent residency with the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

No, the UK Expansion Worker visa does not lead to settlement or permanent residency in the UK. It is designed for temporary stays to facilitate the expansion of your employer's business into the UK. If your long-term goal is settlement, you may need to explore other visa routes once in the UK.

Question 8

Is a Certificate of Sponsorship required for this visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK-based licensed sponsor is mandatory. The CoS must detail the role the applicant will fill and confirm that the job meets the necessary criteria.

Question 9

What documents do I need to provide with my UK Expansion Worker visa application?

Accepted Answer

You need to provide your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number, proof of your salary, evidence of English language proficiency, and documents showing your employment history and relevant experience. Additional documents may include financial statements to prove maintenance funds and travel documentation.

Question 10

Do applicants need to prove English language proficiency?

Accepted Answer

Yes, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English at least at B1 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. This can be proven through an approved test or an academic qualification taught in English.

Question 11

How can I prove my English language proficiency for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

You can prove your English language proficiency by passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider, having an academic qualification taught in English, or being a national of a majority English-speaking country. The required level is B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) scale.

Question 12

What documents are required to apply for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Applicants need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship, proof of salary meeting the £42,000 requirement, evidence of English language proficiency, and documentation of sufficient maintenance funds. They should also provide employment contracts and professional qualifications if applicable.

Question 13

What happens if my UK Expansion Worker visa application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. You may have the option to request an administrative review if you believe the decision was incorrect based on the information you provided. Alternatively, you can reapply if you can address the issues raised in the refusal notice.

Question 14

How long does it take to process the UK Expansion Worker visa application?

Accepted Answer

The processing time for the UK Expansion Worker visa is generally around 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK. However, delays can occur depending on the time of year and individual circumstances.

Question 15

Can my family members accompany me to the UK under the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your family members, including your spouse or partner and children under 18, can apply to join you in the UK as your dependents. They will need to apply for a visa in their own right and meet certain requirements, including financial maintenance requirements.

Question 16

How much does the UK Expansion Worker visa cost?

Accepted Answer

The visa application fee is £259. In addition, applicants must pay the healthcare surcharge, which is typically £624 per year of stay.

Question 17

What is the maintenance fund requirement for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

You must have at least £1,270 available to support yourself in the UK, plus additional funds for any dependents. These funds must have been in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days prior to your application. Your sponsor may also confirm in writing that they will cover your maintenance if necessary.

Question 18

Can visa holders bring their family members to the UK?

Accepted Answer

Yes, visa holders can bring dependents, such as their spouse or partner and children under 18, to the UK. Each family member will need to apply for a dependent visa and pay the relevant fees.

Question 19

How long is the UK Expansion Worker visa valid for?

Accepted Answer

The UK Expansion Worker visa is initially granted for a period that matches the length of your Certificate of Sponsorship, up to a maximum of 12 months. It can potentially be extended, but the total stay in the UK under this visa category cannot exceed two years.

Question 20

Does this visa lead to settlement in the UK?

Accepted Answer

No, the UK Expansion Worker visa does not lead to settlement or indefinite leave to remain in the UK. It is intended for temporary relocation to assist in business expansion.

Question 21

Can I switch to a different visa category while in the UK on a UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

Switching to a different visa category while in the UK on a UK Expansion Worker visa is generally not permitted. You would typically need to leave the UK and apply for a different visa from outside the country. It’s important to plan your long-term intentions before arriving in the UK.

Question 22

What happens if the application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If the application is refused, the applicant will receive a letter detailing the reasons. They may be able to request an administrative review or reapply if they can address the issues raised.

Question 23

How much does it cost to apply for a UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

The application fee for a UK Expansion Worker visa is £259. In addition, you must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £624 per year for each year of your stay. The IHS allows you to access the UK's National Health Service (NHS).

Question 24

How long can an applicant stay in the UK on this visa?

Accepted Answer

The UK Expansion Worker visa allows a stay of up to 12 months, with the possibility of extending for another 12 months, but not exceeding a total of 2 years.

Question 25

What type of job role qualifies for a UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

The job role must be a genuine position related to the expansion of the business into the UK. It should be a managerial or specialist position that requires specific skills or experience. The role should be clearly stated in the Certificate of Sponsorship provided by your employer.

Question 26

Can I switch to another visa from within the UK?

Accepted Answer

Certain visa routes may allow switching from within the UK, but this visa specifically requires applicants to apply from outside the UK. It's best to consult an immigration lawyer for guidance on switching options.

Question 27

Is there any educational requirement for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

Accepted Answer

There is no specific educational qualification required for the UK Expansion Worker visa. However, applicants must demonstrate relevant work experience in a managerial or specialist role, which can be supported by professional qualifications and references.

Question 28

What are the maintenance funds requirements?

Accepted Answer

Applicants must show they have at least £1,270 available to support themselves unless their sponsor can cover these costs. Evidence can include bank statements or a sponsor's letter of support.

Question 29

What should I do if my Certificate of Sponsorship details change after my visa application is submitted?

Accepted Answer

If there are changes to your Certificate of Sponsorship details after your application has been submitted, you should inform the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) as soon as possible. Depending on the nature of the change, you may need to submit additional documentation or a new application.

Question 30

Can allowances be included in the salary calculation?

Accepted Answer

Yes, allowances can be included in the salary calculation, provided they are guaranteed and do not exceed 30% of the total salary package. This should be clearly detailed in the employment contract.

UK Expansion Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) FAQ

Featured Questions

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship and how do I obtain one for the UK Expansion Worker visa?General00

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship and how do I obtain one for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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What is the primary purpose of the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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Am I eligible for permanent residency with the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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Who can apply for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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What happens if my UK Expansion Worker visa application is refused?

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What documents do I need to provide with my UK Expansion Worker visa application?

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How much does the UK Expansion Worker visa cost?

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How much does it cost to apply for a UK Expansion Worker visa?

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How long does the UK Expansion Worker visa application process take?

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How long does it take to process the UK Expansion Worker visa application?

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What should I do if my Certificate of Sponsorship details change after my visa application is submitted?

General Questions

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship and how do I obtain one for the UK Expansion Worker visa?00

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship and how do I obtain one for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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What is the primary purpose of the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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How long can an applicant stay in the UK on this visa?

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What are the specific salary requirements for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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What are the salary requirements for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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Is a Certificate of Sponsorship required for this visa?

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Do applicants need to prove English language proficiency?

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Can my family members accompany me to the UK under the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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What is the maintenance fund requirement for the UK Expansion Worker visa?

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