The UK’s Global Talent visa is for individuals at both the established and early stages of the career in academia or research, arts and culture and digital technology to come to the UK under attractive visa conditions.
As a more flexible immigration option than other UK work visas, the Global Talent visa does not require job offer or sponsorship by an employer, and does not place restrictions on the type of work you can do within your field.
The Global Talent visa also offers fast-tracked settlement in the UK for eligible individuals. With settlement, you are on the path to naturalise as a British citizen.
While appealing as an immigration route, the application process for the Global Talent visa can appear convoluted. Before you can apply to the Home Office for the visa, you first have to either secure formal endorsement for your professional capabilities, or have been in receipt of a ‘prestigious prize’ for work in your field.
In this guide, we explain the eligibility and procedural requirements that Global Talent visa holders have to meet, to help you approach your application full informed and with confidence.
Section A: What is the Global Talent Visa?
Replacing the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa in 2020, the Global Talent route was designed to attract talented and promising professionals in the fields of science, digital technology and arts and culture to work in the UK.
While the requirements are notably less extensive than those of other work visas under the UK’s points-based immigration system, applicants still have to meet a number of eligibility requirements, and in most cases will need to be endorsed, unless you have an award listed in ‘Appendix Global Talent: Prestigious Prizes’, in which case you are exempt from the endorsement requirement and can apply for the visa straightaway.
There is no minimum salary threshold or English language test for the Global Talent route, although the endorsing body may impose its own language requirement.
Applicants do not have to find a job to be eligible for this visa, and you have the option to take up paid employment, to work for yourself as self-employed or to become a director of a company, although any work should be within the field for which you have been endorsed. Studying is also permitted, subject to the Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) conditions.
If you are employed and then subsequently change employers or jobs, you will not need to notify the Home Office (unlike under the skilled worker visa). Sponsors also need to record any changes for endorsement-funded researchers under UKRI’s reporting duty. UKRI endorsed-funder organisations must still report project changes to UKRI under grant-monitoring rules (not an immigration duty but tied to the endorsement).
Qualifying dependants can accompany Global Talent participants, and it is possible to apply from overseas, or to switch within the UK from other UK visa categories.
It is also a relatively flexible route for visa holders. Applicants can apply for visas of between one year and five years, in full-year increments.
Global Talent visa holders may also become eligible for UK indefinite leave to remain, with ILR time-frames varying by pathway, not just by “talent” vs “promise”. Three-year ILR may be open to applicants endorsed (or prize-route) in science, engineering, humanities or medicine, whether under Talent or Promise, and all Talent cases in Digital Technology and Arts & Culture. Five-year ILR is open to promise cases in Digital Technology and Arts & Culture.
For employers, the Global Talent route offers a flexible and less onerous alternative to hiring under the Skilled Worker Visa, since the Global Talent route does not require sponsorship by an employer and organisations hiring individuals under the Global Talent route will not have to pay the costs associated with sponsoring workers such as the Immigration Skills Charge.
Section B: Global Talent Visa Eligibility Requirements
Global Talent visa applicants must be aged 18 or over, and be able to demonstrate that they are leaders or potential leaders in their field.
1. Qualifying Fields
The Global Talent route is open both to established talent (individuals who can demonstrate they are already leaders in their respective field) as well as applicants showing ‘promise’ and potential to become leaders in their field.
The Global Talent visa is available across several specialist pathways, reflecting the diverse expertise the UK seeks to attract:
a. Science, Engineering, Humanities and Medicine – researchers and academics leading or contributing to cutting-edge work in universities, research institutes or industry.
b. Digital Technology – technical and commercial innovators in areas such as software engineering, artificial intelligence, cyber-security, data science and product development.
c. Arts & Culture – recognised practitioners in visual and performing arts, literature, museums and galleries, together with dedicated sub-routes for Architecture, Fashion Design, and Film, Television, Animation and Visual Effects assessed by Arts Council partners.
2. Demonstrating Leadership or Potential Leadership
Importantly, before you can apply to the Home Office for a Global Talent visa, you must first either obtain endorsement from the relevant authorised endorsing body, or have been awarded qualifying industry recognition, as listed in Appendix Global Talent: Prestigious Prizes, to prove that you meet the necessary standard of professional achievement.
If relying on endorsement, applicants must be endorsed by a recognised body in their field, which confirms their status as leaders or potential leaders. The endorsement bodies are responsible for assessing and validating the credentials of applicants within their respective specialist fields.
You may be able to bypass the endorsement stage if you have been awarded a prize as listed in Appendix Prestigious Prizes. This is a list of awards recognised by the UK government as demonstrating exceptional talent that meets the requirements of the Global Talent Visa. These prizes are considered so prestigious that recipients are automatically eligible for the visa without needing endorsement from one of the endorsing bodies. The list is subject to change, (for example, it was expanded in January 2025 to add new computing and AI awards. Applicant should check Appendix Global Talent: Prestigious Prizes on the day they apply.
If you have won one of these prizes, you can use this information to support your Global Talent Visa application, which can significantly expedite the process.
Section C: Global Talent Visa Based on Endorsement
For most applicants, the application process for the Global Talent visa is in two stages. Without a prize as listed in Appendix Global Talent: Prestigious Prizes, first, you apply to be endorsed by an approved body. Only with endorsement can you proceed to apply for the actual visa from the Home Office.
The endorsing bodies are charged with assessing applications from individuals within their respective professional fields, and developing and applying sector-specific criteria and evidential requirements for applications. The relevant endorsing bodies will then make an endorsement decision based on your profile and the evidence you provide.
The Global Talent visa endorsing bodies are:
| Endorsing Body | Main Field(s) of Expertise | Example Professions / Roles | Changes or developments |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Royal Society | Natural & Medical Sciences | Researchers, Professors, Laboratory Scientists | No changes announced |
| The Royal Academy of Engineering | Engineering | Civil, Mechanical & Systems Engineers | No changes announced |
| The British Academy | Humanities & Social Sciences | Historians, Sociologists, Economists | No changes announced |
| UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) | Science & Research Funding | Principal Investigators, Post-doctoral Researchers | Operates peer-review, fellowships and endorsed-funder fast-track routes |
| Tech Nation | Digital Technology | Software Engineers, Data Scientists, Product Managers | Applicants submitting an endorsement request on or before 3 August 2025 must continue to complete both the digital ‘Stage 1’ form on GOV.UK and a separate application form on Tech Nation’s platform. From 4 August 2025 onward, only the single Stage 1 form on GOV.UK is required, and the previous Tech Nation form is discontinued. |
| Arts Council England (ACE) | Arts & Culture | Artists, Musicians, Writers, Performers, Architects, Fashion Designers, Film & TV Creatives | Partners acting on behalf of ACE include PACT (film/TV performers & producers), ScreenSkills (animation, VFX, post-production – Talent route only) and the British Fashion Council (fashion design) |
This list of endorsing bodies is subject to ongoing review.
Each body has its own endorsement criteria and process, based in large on the following:
a. Exceptional Talent criteria: to assess individuals who can evidence they have already made a significant contribution as a leader to their field.
b. Exceptional Promise criteria: for applicants at an early stage in their careers who have shown the potential for being a future leader and making significant contributions in their field.
There are four routes to endorsement under the Global Talent category applicable to applicants in the science, engineering, humanities and medicine pathway assessed by the Royal Society, Royal Academy of Engineering, British Academy or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI):
a. Peer review – endorsement of applications by The British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering or The Royal Society. UKRI for peer-review route where the applicant is not eligible under the other three academies.
b. Senior appointments – endorsement for applicants with a job offer as a professor, associate professor, reader, senior group leader or equivalent at any UK higher education institution or eligible research institute, by the British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and The Royal Society.
c. Fellowships – endorsement for those with an individual fellowship (either current or held within the last five years), on the list approved by The British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering and Royal Society.
d. Endorsed funders – a visa route for researchers who make critical contributions to work supported by grant funding from a recognised funder. Qualifying applicants will be fast tracked to the Home Office visa application stage with minimal evidential requirements, where they meet the individual eligibility criteria. UKRI will be responsible for assessing endorsed funded applications.
Digital Technology, Arts & Culture, Architecture, Fashion and Film/TV follow separate criteria.
1. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Digital Technology
Tech Nation acts as the sole endorsing body for the digital technology pathway of the Global Talent visa.
According to government guidance updated on 13 June 2025, applicants submitting an endorsement request on or before 3 August 2025 should continue to complete both the digital ‘Stage 1’ form on GOV.UK and a separate application form on Tech Nation’s platform.
From 4 August 2025 onward, only the single Stage 1 form on GOV.UK is required, as the Tech Nation form is to be discontinued.
Endorsement in the field of Digital Technology must either be:
a. Technical: an applicant with technical skills who can establish their proficiency in creating technological infrastructure and constructing, utilising, or exploiting technology stacks; or
b. Business: a candidate for a business position who can offer evidence of their demonstrated commercial, investment, or product competence in creating digital products or managing investments in big digital product enterprises.
The endorsing body requires proof to qualify for endorsement. For example, you should provide a CV that details your work and publishing history, as well as three letters of recommendation with your application for a Digital Technology endorsement.
The letters of recommendation must come from three different, reputable organisations that are recognised as authorities in the field of digital technology. They must demonstrate how the author knows you, your successes in your profession, how the author feels that you show remarkable potential or promise and the impact you will make to the UK digital economy.
Under current rules, there is no restriction on the number of Global Talent visas that can be issued to eligible applicants within this sector.
2. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Film & Television
Talented people in the areas of cinema and television who want to work in the UK may be eligible under the Global Talent visa route. The number of candidates who can be endorsed under the Global Talent route’s Film and Television subcategory is unlimited.
The Producers’ Alliance for Film and Television (PACT) will assess applicants’ eligibility for endorsement for film and television performers and producers, while ScreenSkills judges animation, post-production and VFX.
Note that ScreenSkills accepts “Exceptional Talent” only, there is no “Promise” route for animation, post-production and VFX.
3. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Architecture
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) (on behalf of Arts Council England), will determine whether applicants are industry leaders or have the potential to be leaders in their fields.
The number of candidates that can be supported under the Global Talent route’s Architecture subcategory has no cap.
To be endorsed by the Royal Institute of British Architects you will need to be professionally employed as an architect generating work of excellent quality which has been published, presented or exhibited abroad.
You must have been regularly engaged as a professional architect in the last 5 years and be able to show a substantial track record in more than one country (if applying under Exceptional Talent criteria) or a developing track record in one or more countries if applying under Exceptional Promise criteria.
4. Visa Endorsement in Science, Engineering, Humanities & Medicine
There is no limit to the number of candidates who can be endorsed under the Global Talent route’s subcategory of Science, Engineering, Humanities, and Medicine.
The Royal Society (for applications in natural and medical sciences), the Royal Academy of Engineering (for applications in engineering), the British Academy (for applications in humanities and social sciences), or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) will determine whether applicants are leaders in their fields or have the potential to be leaders for science and research applications.
Whether you are applying under the Fast Track or Full Peer Review criteria will determine what requirements you must fulfil for endorsement.
5. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Arts & culture
Applications in the fields of combined arts, dance, literature, music, theatre, and visual arts are assessed by Arts Council England, including those working in an artistic context in galleries and museums. Applicants must be industry leaders or have the potential to be leaders.
There is no restriction on the number of candidates who can be supported under the Global Talent route’s Arts and Culture subcategory.
You must be professionally creating work of exceptional quality that has been performed, presented, distributed, or exhibited abroad in order to be eligible for an Arts and Culture endorsement from Arts Council England.
If you are applying on the basis of exceptional talent, you must have consistently worked as a professional practitioner in your area for the last five years and be able to demonstrate a significant track record in more than one nation or a developing track record in one or more countries if applying on the basis of Exceptional Promise.
6. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Fashion
The British Fashion Council (BFC), on behalf of Arts Council England, will consider whether applicants are leaders in their fields currently or have the potential to become leaders.
The British Fashion Council can endorse applications from people working in the fashion design sector who play key roles in the industry.
The number of candidates that can be endorsed under the Global Talent route’s fashion sector subcategory is unlimited.
Section D: Global Talent Visa Based on Prestigious Prizes
Global Talent applications are also open to individuals who hold one of the prestigious prizes as listed in Appendix Global Talent: Prestigious Prizes of the Immigration Rules. These prizes have been identified by the Global Talent endorsing bodies as demonstrating exceptional talent.
If you are the named recipient of one of the qualifying prestigious prize, you would be eligible to apply for a Global Talent visa without the need to obtain endorsement.
This means you benefit from a fast-tracked application process as you are exempt from having to secure endorsement and can proceed straight to the visa application stage.
There are no stipulations as to when you must have received the prize. This means you could rely on a prize that is recent or was awarded several years ago, provided your award has not since been withdrawn.
However, to qualify, you must be listed on the official award citation; team-wide or institutional prizes do not qualify unless the individual is specifically named.
While the Home Office confirms there is no time limit on when the prize was won, the prize must not have been withdrawn and must still appear on the current Appendix when the visa decision is made. If UKVI cannot verify the win from publicly available sources, you will be asked to supply evidence.
Read our detailed guide to Appendix Global talent here >>
Section E: How to Apply for a Global Talent Visa
Global Talent visa applications are made online, either within the UK under the switching process, or from overseas.
If you are outside the UK, you can apply for entry clearance at the nearest visa appointment centre in your country of residence.
If you are in the UK, you can apply online to switch to the Global Talent visa if you currently hold lawful status under any of the following visa categories:
a. Start Up
b. Innovator or Innovator Founder
c. Any Tier 1 category (except Tier 1 Graduate Entrepreneur)
d. Skilled Worker (formerly Tier 2 General)
e. T2 Minister of Religion
f. T2 Sportsperson
g. Scale-up Worker
h. Representative of an Overseas Business
i. Global Business Mobility routes
j. High Potential Individual
k. Student/Tier 4 (not Short-term Student)
You cannot switch to the Global Talent visa from within the UK if you hold permission as a Visitor, Short-term Student, Graduate, Seasonal Worker, Domestic Worker in a Private Household or any other temporary‐worker sub-route of the old Tier 5 framework.
If you are relying on a prestigious prize for your application, you can complete the online application form straightaway.
If you’re relying on endorsement, it is possible to apply for your visa before securing endorsement, however, should your endorsement not be approved, your visa application will also be refused. If you have successfully been endorsed, you will receive an email from the Home Office with a copy of the endorsement letter, at which point you have three months to make your visa application.
The 3 months runs from the letter date to the visa-application submission date (not the payment date).
If your application is refused, you may be able to request an endorsement review.
The endorsement application has to satisfy the validity requirements, which includes ensuring you complete the correct application form(s), pay the correct endorsement fee and endorsement must have been secured from the relevant body in the relevant professional field.
You then need to ensure the visa application is also valid. You will need to use the correct form, pay all relevant fees including the Immigration Health Charge, submit any required biometrics, submit all required supporting documentation including the endorsement letter by a Home Office approved endorsing body.
To be granted a Global Talent visa, you have to meet the suitability requirements, and not be liable for grounds for refusal by being in breach of immigration laws or on immigration bail.
You will also have to show you meet the eligibility requirements, i.e. you will either already be internationally recognised at the highest level as a leader in your particular field or have already demonstrated exceptional promise and are likely to become leaders in their particular field.
Although the Global Talent route is part of the points-based immigration system, applicants do not have to calculate points. The Home Office automatically allocates the full 70 points once it confirms either (a) a valid endorsement letter issued within the last three months and not withdrawn or (b) evidence that the applicant has won a qualifying prestigious prize. No further scoring exercise is required.
| Application type | How the automatic 70 points are secured |
|---|---|
| Initial Global Talent visa | The applicant either (a) holds a prize listed in Appendix Global Talent: Prestigious Prizes or (b) submits a valid endorsement letter issued by an approved endorsing body. An endorsement is valid if it is dated no more than three months before the visa application and has not been withdrawn. |
| Global Talent visa extension | The applicant proves that they have earned money in the UK during their previous grant of leave from work directly related to their endorsed field. In addition, the original endorsement remains in force and has not been withdrawn, or the prestigious prize relied upon for the first grant of leave has not been withdrawn. |
Section F: Global Talent Visa Supporting Documents
As part of your visa application to the Home Office, you will need to submit:
a. A valid passport or another document that confirms your identity and nationality.
b. Your tuberculosis test results if you are resident in a country on the Home Office list for six months or longer before application.
c. If you have received an award or scholarship to study in the UK within the past year, you will also need written permission to apply from the agency or government that awarded it.
If any of your documents are not in English or Welsh, you will need to supply a certified translation.
You will also need a blank page in your passport for your visa if you are from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, or from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland but do not have a biometric passport with an embedded chip.
If you have received an eligible award, the Home Office will run an automatic database check. If a prize is not verifiable electronically, you will need to submit proof.
Section G: Application Fees & Processing Times
It costs £766 to apply for the Global Talent visa, whether you are applying from overseas or in the UK.
Applicants applying based on endorsement will pay this in two parts: £561 when applying for endorsement, and £205 when applying to the Home Office for the visa.
Applicants applying based on a prestigious award have to pay the full fee with their visa application.
Dependant applications also cost £766 each.
| Type of application | Fee from 9 April 2025 |
|---|---|
| Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is required | £205 |
| Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is not required | £766 |
| Global Talent – dependants only | £766 |
Applicants will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for each year of leave. Currently, this is charged at a rate of £1,035 per year of leave for adults. The full amount of IHS will need to be paid when making the application. Since Global Talent applicants can choose to apply for leave in whole year increments of up to five years, they will only have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for the period of leave they require and are applying for.
Read our full guide to the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge here >>
Global Talent Visa Processing Times
The endorsement stage typically takes a month, although this can vary by organisation. Visa processing times vary depending on where you are applying from. If you are applying from outside the UK, processing currently takes 3 weeks, while applications from within the UK usually take 8 weeks.
You may be able to pay for faster processing under the priority service (decision in 5 working days) or super priority service (next working day decision). These are available for an additional fee of £500 and £1000 respectively per application. You will be advised when making your application if these services are available to you.
You can read our comprehensive guide to UK visa processing times here >>
Section H: Visa Duration & Extensions
It is also possible to apply to extend your Global talent visa, provided you remain eligible. You can choose to apply for leave in whole year increments of up to five years.
For extension applications, the same 70 points are granted as under the initial application, provided the endorsement (or prize) remains valid and the applicant shows they have earned money in the UK from work linked to the endorsed field during their current grant of leave.
Earned money can be salary, dividends, royalties or self-employed profits but must relate to the endorsed field and be earned during the most recent grant of leave.
If your endorsement has been withdrawn, you will however, be required to make a completely new application.
Existing Tier 1 Exceptional Talent leave holders are also able to apply to extend their visa under the Global Talent category. Tier 1 Exceptional talent holders will be able to apply for UK settlement without having to switch to the Global Talent category.
Section I: Global
Global Talent visa holders can become eligible to apply for UK ILR, provided they meet all of the ILR requirements, such as passing the Life in the UK Test and meeting English at B1 unless exempt, plus satisfy the general good-character test.
Global Talent visa holders can become eligible to apply for UK settlement after either 3 or 5 years:
| Global Talent endorsement category | Settlement qualifying period |
|---|---|
| Science, Engineering, Humanities and Medicine applicants (including UKRI Endorsed Funder route) endorsed under Talent or Promise criteria |
3 years |
| Digital Technology and Arts & Culture applicants endorsed under Talent criteria |
3 years |
| Digital Technology and Arts & Culture applicants endorsed under Promise criteria |
5 years |
A further advantage of the Global Talent visa over other work visa categories is that time spent in the UK under certain other immigration categories can count towards your residence requirement for ILR. If you have been in the UK with lawful status under any of the following visas, you are able to include that period of leave within your qualifying residence:
a. Any Tier 1 visa – except Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur)
b. Tier 2 (General) or Skilled Worker
c. Scale-up Worker
d. Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) or T2 Minister of Religion
e. Tier 2 (Sportsperson) or T2 Sportsperson
f. Innovator
g. Representative of an Overseas Business
The general absence rule for UK ILR limits time spent outside the United Kingdom to 180 days in any 12-month period during the qualifying residence. Global Talent applicants may disregard certain absences when counting those 180 days, but only in narrowly defined circumstances. The concession applies only to days spent overseas “for the purpose of research” by applicants who were either endorsed by the Royal Society, Royal Academy of Engineering, British Academy or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), or granted their visa on the basis of an eligible prize in the science, engineering, humanities or medicine pathway.
The absence concession does not cover Digital Technology or Arts & Culture endorsements, nor does it cover trips for commercial conferences, routine teaching, consultancy or any activity unrelated to the endorsed research. These types of non-qualifying travel is still counted toward the 180-day limit.
When applying for ILR you must also show that you earned money in the UK during your most recent grant of Global Talent leave from work directly linked to your endorsement field. The income can be from employment, self-employment, dividends or royalties. While it does not need to cover the entire period of leave, it must fall within the current grant.
Provided the original endorsement has not been withdrawn, Global Talent visa holders normally do not need a fresh endorsement for either an extension or a settlement application.
Read our comprehensive guide to Indefinite Leave to Remain here >>
Section J: Benefits of the Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent visa offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive option for highly skilled professionals seeking to advance their careers and lives in the UK.
One of the primary benefits of the Global Talent visa is the significant work flexibility and freedom it provides. Unlike many other visa types that tie the holder to a specific employer or job, the Global Talent visa allows individuals to work for any employer, be self-employed, or even establish their own business. This flexibility empowers professionals to pursue the most suitable and rewarding opportunities without being restricted by visa limitations.
The visa also offers a clear path to UK settlement, which is a highly attractive prospect for many applicants. After holding the Global Talent visa for three to five years, depending on their circumstances and achievements, visa holders can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Achieving ILR status allows individuals to live and work in the UK without time restrictions, providing long-term stability and the ability to plan for the future with greater certainty.
Opportunities for family members to join the visa holder in the UK is another significant benefit of the Global Talent visa. Spouses, partners, and children under 18 can apply for dependant visas, allowing families to stay together while pursuing their aspirations in the UK. Dependants may work in almost any role except as a professional sportsperson.
Section K: Summary
The Global Talent Visa presents an exciting opportunity for professionals to pursue UK-based opportunities for both career and personal development. This visa route is designed to attract the world’s leading talent, providing a pathway to not only advance your work opportunities, but also to immerse yourself in life in the UK. However, the endorsement and application process can be daunting, necessitating careful preparation and diligent management to ensure that all eligibility and procedural requirements are met.
Section L: Need Assistance?
The Global Talent visa is a highly attractive route for those who can demonstrate exceptional potential or recognition in their field to pursue UK-based opportunities under flexible visa terms. If you are considering making an application, speak to our UK immigration experts to discuss the eligibility and procedural requirements and for specialist advice on your Global Talent visa application.
Section M: Global Talent Visa FAQs
What is the Global Talent Visa?
The Global Talent Visa is a UK immigration route designed for highly skilled individuals in specific fields such as digital technology, arts and culture, and academia. It allows talented professionals to work and live in the UK with greater flexibility.
Who is eligible to apply for the Global Talent Visa?
Eligible applicants include leaders or potential leaders in digital technology, arts and culture, research and academia. Applicants must obtain an endorsement from a recognised UK body relevant to their field or have received a qualifying ‘prestigious prize’.
How long does it take to get global talent visa?
If applying from inside the UK, you should get a decision within 8 weeks of submitting your documentation. If you are applying from outside the UK, processing typically takes 3 weeks. Priority processing may be available, for an additional fee, to fast-track your application.
Can you bring dependants under the Global Talent category?
Global Talent applicants are permitted to bring family members who qualify as dependants under the UK immigration rules.
Do I need job to be eligible for the Global Talent visa?
You do not necessarily need a job or to be sponsored by an employer to qualify for the Global Talent visa. You will, however, need to either have secured endorsement or have received a qualifying ‘prestigious prize’ as evidence of your professional standing.
Is Global Talent visa a work visa?
With a Global Talent visa, you can work in the UK in the fields of arts, sciences or digital technology without having to be sponsored by an employers.
What are the endorsement bodies for the Global Talent Visa?
Endorsement bodies vary by field. For instance, the Arts Council England endorses those in arts and culture. Academics and researchers may be endorsed by organisations such as the Royal Society, British Academy, and UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
How long is the Global Talent Visa valid for?
The visa can be granted for up to five years. Visa holders can choose the length of their visa based on their personal circumstances and plans.
Can I extend the Global Talent Visa?
The Global Talent Visa can be extended as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. Extensions should be applied for before your current visa expires.
Is there a minimum salary requirement for the Global Talent Visa?
There is no minimum salary requirement for the Global Talent Visa. The visa is based on skills and potential, not salary thresholds.
What are the benefits of the Global Talent Visa?
Key benefits include the ability to work for any employer or be self-employed, no need for a job offer prior to applying, a pathway to permanent residency, and opportunities for family members to live in the UK.
Can I switch to the Global Talent Visa from another visa?
You can switch to the Global Talent Visa but only from specific UK visa categories, and provided you meet the Global Talent eligibility criteria.
What are the application fees for the Global Talent Visa?
It costs £766 to apply for a Global Talent visa.
What documents are required for the Global Talent Visa application?
Required documents include proof of endorsement, a valid passport or travel document, and evidence supporting your achievements and contributions in your field. If you are applying on the basis of prestigious prize, the Home Office will use public information to verify your achievement, although they may contact you directly if they are not able to verify this information.
Section N: Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Global Talent Visa | A UK visa designed for highly skilled individuals in specific fields to work and live in the UK. |
| Endorsement | Official approval from a recognised body confirming the applicant’s qualifications and skills. |
| Tech Nation | Endorsing body for digital technology applicants for the Global Talent Visa. |
| Arts Council England | An endorsing body for applicants in arts and culture for the Global Talent Visa. |
| Dependent Visa | A visa allowing family members (spouse/partner and children under 18) to join the main visa holder in the UK. |
| Self-employed | Working for oneself as a freelancer or the owner of a business rather than for an employer. |
| Eligibility Criteria | The specific conditions and requirements that an applicant must meet to qualify for the visa. |
| Pathway to Residency | The process or route through which a visa holder can become a permanent resident of the UK. |
| Application Fees | The charges associated with submitting an application for the visa and endorsement. |
| Processing Times | The duration it takes for an application to be reviewed and a decision to be made. |
| Switching Visas | The process of changing from one type of UK visa to another. |
| Endorsing Body | An organisation recognised by the UK government to assess and endorse applicants for the Global Talent Visa. |
| Application Process | The steps involved in applying for the Global Talent Visa, including obtaining endorsement and submitting the visa application. |
| Skilled Professionals | Individuals with specialised knowledge or abilities in a specific field. |
Section O: Additional Resources
UK Government Official Visa Information
https://www.gov.uk/global-talent
Official government page with comprehensive information on the Global Talent Visa, including eligibility, application process, and required documents.
Arts Council England – Global Talent Visa
https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/funding/global-talent-visa
Information and guidelines on how to apply for endorsement through the Arts Council England for arts and culture professionals.
Royal Society – Global Talent Visa Endorsement
https://royalsociety.org/grants-schemes-awards/global-talent-visa/
Detailed information on the endorsement process for researchers and scientists through the Royal Society.
British Academy – Global Talent Visa
https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/international/global-talent-visa/
Guidelines and application process for humanities and social sciences professionals seeking endorsement through the British Academy.
Author
Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.
She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.
Anne is an active public speaker, immigration commentator, and immigration policy contributor and regularly hosts training sessions for employers and HR professionals
