A Global Talent visa is for talented individuals who are considered recognised leaders or an emerging leader in the fields of science, engineering, medicine, humanities, digital technology or arts and culture (including film and television, fashion design and architecture). The Global Talent visa route allows individuals to work in the UK without needing to be sponsored or set up a business in the UK, offering more flexibility and freedom than other visa routes.

Here we consider and explain some of the points that need to be considered when applying for a Global Talent Visa:

What do I need to do in order to apply for leave under the Global Talent route?

 The Global Talent route is a two-stage application process. You will first need to apply for endorsement from a ‘designated body’. Once endorsed, you will be able to apply for leave to enter/remain in this category. 

What are the possible options for endorsement under the Global Talent route?

There are various endorsing bodies, including:

• The Arts Council England (who also accept applications on behalf of the Producers Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT), the British Fashion Council (BFC) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA))
• Tech Nation
• The British Academy 
• The Royal Society
• The Royal Academy of Engineering
• UK Research and Innovation

Do I have to be in the UK to make my endorsement application? 

No, this application can be made from anywhere.

What do I need to submit when applying for an endorsement?

Each endorsing body has its own criteria that must be met; the criteria and/or thresholds may differ for Exceptional Talent and Exceptional Promise endorsements. The endorsing bodies require supporting documents to be submitted, along with letters of recommendation, which confirm your accomplishments and work over the qualifying period.   

Can I apply for leave to remain as a Global Talent migrant from within the UK? 

Yes, although it will depend on the type of visa you have as there are restrictions on who can apply for an extension of stay in this category from within the UK. Generally speaking, it is possible to switch into the Global Talent Visa route if in the UK on a long-term route which allows work or study. 

If my leave to remain/enter application is successful, how long will I be granted leave for?

It is up to the applicant to choose the length of leave being sought. When making an application the applicant can ask for between one to five years of leave to be granted. The length of leave requested will dictate the cost of the application/immigration health surcharge. 

Does the Global Talent route lead to settlement in the UK?

Yes, Global Talent migrants will be eligible to settle in the UK either after three or five years of continuous residence in the UK. The length of residence required will depend on the type of endorsement held by the applicant. It is also possible to combine leave spent in the UK in other categories with a Global Talent Visa in order to qualify for Settlement in the UK.

How can I apply for a Global Talent Visa?

Contact our experts in the Immigration team. We can guide you through the process and advise on and assist with every step, from careful consideration of your supporting documents and compiling of your endorsement application to the submission of and advising on your visa application. Contact the Business immigration team here.