UK Expansion Worker Visa: A Comprehensive Guide

The UK Expansion Worker Visa is a specialized visa category designed for businesses aiming to establish new commercial operations in the United Kingdom. Below, we provide a detailed overview of the requirements, processes, and benefits associated with this visa.

 

1. Requirements for the UK Expansion Worker Visa

Businesses applying for this visa must not have conducted commercial operations in the UK prior to the application.

 

Key Requirements:

• Company Registration or Premises Ownership:
  • The business must register with Companies House or
  • Own a physical premise in the UK.
• Trading History:
  • The company must have been actively trading outside the UK for at least 3 years.
• Business Plan:
  • A comprehensive business plan detailing the proposed UK operations, including:
    • Market research.
    • Sales strategies.
    • Competitor analysis.
    • Financial projections.
  • Minimum Salary Threshold:
    • Employees sent to the UK must have a minimum annual salary of £42,400.
  • Key Personnel:
    • The business must identify key personnel responsible for establishing operations and provide their details to the Home Office.
    • Sponsor Licence:
      • After registering with Companies House or securing premises, the company must apply for a sponsor licence to send up to 5 personnel to the UK.
      • Once approved, the company can issue Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS), allowing personnel to apply for the UK Expansion Worker Visa.

 

2. Employee-Specific Requirements

Employees being sent to the UK must meet the following conditions:

• Minimum Salary:
  • An annual salary of at least £42,400.
• Occupation Code:
  • The role assigned to the employee must align with the relevant occupation code in the UK.

 

3. English Language Proficiency

Unlike other visa categories, the UK Expansion Worker Visa does not require applicants to demonstrate English language proficiency.

 

4. Family Members

Employees on the UK Expansion Worker Visa can bring their dependents, including:

• Spouse or partner.
• Children under 18 years of age.

 

5. Visa Duration

The duration of the UK Expansion Worker Visa is determined based on the following:

• 12 months from the start date of the job in the UK.
• 14 days after the expiry of the Certificate of Sponsorship.

Whichever is shorter will apply.

The visa can be extended for an additional 12 months, but the maximum stay is capped at 2 years.

 

6. Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

Time spent under the UK Expansion Worker Visa does not count toward the residency requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). However, transitioning to another visa category, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, may allow you to work toward ILR.

For tailored advice on long-term residency options, seeking professional assistance is recommended.

 

7. Second Job Eligibility

Holders of the UK Expansion Worker Visa are not permitted to take on a second paid job.

 

8. Application Process and Timelines

• Applications from inside the UK: Typically processed within 3 weeks.
• Applications from outside the UK: Typically processed within 8 weeks.

 

Why Choose Muya Consultancy?

Setting up operations in the UK can be complex, but with the right guidance, the process can be seamless. At Muya Consultancy, we specialize in assisting businesses with:

• Sponsor Licence Applications: Helping you secure the necessary sponsor licence to send employees to the UK.
• Business Plan Preparation: Crafting detailed and compelling business plans that meet Home Office requirements.
• Visa Applications: Guiding you through the visa application process, ensuring all requirements are met.
• Long-Term Residency Advice: Advising on transitioning to other visa categories or applying for ILR.

 

Start Your UK Expansion Today

The UK Expansion Worker Visa is an excellent opportunity to grow your business and establish a presence in one of the world’s leading economies. Contact Muya Consultancy today for expert assistance and personalized support throughout the process.