UK Scale-Up Visa

Your Comprehensive Guide to the UK Scale-Up Visa

The UK Scale-Up Visa provides businesses the opportunity to establish and grow their business in the UK’s dynamic business environment. Let’s dive into what you need about this unique visa category.

Understanding Your Sponsor Company's Obligations

A crucial part of the UK Scale-Up Visa application process is understanding what requirements your sponsoring company must meet. These requirements ensure that the company can provide the support and resources necessary for your successful integration into the UK job market. Here are the critical criteria your sponsoring company must fulfil:

Annualised growth of at least 20% for the previous three year period in terms of turnover or staffing; and

Has a minimum of 10 employees at the start of these three years.

Companies must add the Scale Up visa route to their existing Home Office Sponsor Licence, if applicable, or apply for a new one.

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Scale-Up Visa Eligibility and Requirements

As with any visa application process, understanding and fulfilling all the requirements is paramount. This ensures that your application is accurately presented and has a high chance of success. Below, we have outlined the essential criteria and documentation for the UK Scale-Up Visa. Remember, each application is unique and may require additional specifics.

You must receive a minimum annual salary of £33,000 or the amount stated on the Occupational Code (OC code), whichever is higher.

The role you intend to undertake must be considered at or above the bachelor’s degree level (RQF 6).

You must obtain sponsorship from an employer registered as Home Office sponsor under the Scale-Up route. Upon sponsorship, you will be issued a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), like an online UK work permit.

You must meet the English language requirement of CEFR level B1 in reading, writing, speaking and listening, or be from an ‘English-speaking country’.

You must have held £1,270 in savings for 28 days before the date of application, or an A-rated Home Office sponsor may certify that they will provide this on the CoS. Further funds must be held for each dependant family member applying.

The Scale-Up Visa Application Process Explained

The Scale-Up Visa application process involves several stages, including securing an endorsement, obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship, and completing the visa application. Each stage requires meticulous attention to detail and strict compliance with UK immigration laws.

FAQs

After the initial 6 months sponsorship, can you work for any employer in the UK?

Yes, following 6 months sponsorship in the UK, you are free to work for any employer in the UK, doing any job whilst the visa remains valid. You may also extend on this basis.

How long will the Scale Up visa be valid for?

Scale up sponsored visas are usually granted for an initial period of either up to 2 years. However, sponsorship from a UK company is only required for the first 6 months of the visa

Can you extend a Scale Up Worker visa?

It is possible to apply for work visa extensions from within the UK as many times as required. Extensions are usually granted for 3 years.

Can you switch into this visa from within the UK?

It is possible to apply to switch visa category from within the UK into this visa type, if you are not currently in the UK holding one of the following visa types:

Visitor visa
Short-Term Student visa
Parent of a Child visa
Seasonal Worker visa
Domestic Worker visa
Any Discretionary visa

Please however note that you may still need to meet the requirement to have worked for your employer outside of the UK for the required period, unless exempt.

Do UK Scale Up visas lead to ILR?

Yes, following 5 years continuous residence under the Scale-Up visa category should usually be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Can you bring your family as dependents?

Spouses or partners and children under the age of 18 may apply for visas to accompany you to the UK as your ‘dependants’. Your spouse or partner should be permitted to work.

Where should you apply for a Scale Up Worker work visa?

It is permitted to switch into the Scale Up Worker immigration category from within the UK if you were last granted long term visa, i.e. not a short term student or visitor visa. In all other circumstances, initial applications should be submitted from outside of the UK, either from your country of nationality or legal residence.

How long does it take for the visa to be processed?

UKVI aim to process visas as follows:

Visa applications submitted outside of the UK:

Standard processing: 15 working days
Priority Service processing: 5 working days

Visa applications submitted inside the UK:

Standard processing: 8 weeks
Priority Service processing: 5 working day

Important: UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) do not guarantee processing times and delays do occur. We advise that you do not book any non refundable travel until your visa has been approved and your work visa is in your possession. Priority services can be suspended without notice and may not be available at the time of application.

How much does the visa cost?

The UKVI application fee is as follows:

Visa up to 2 years duration: £822

In addition, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is £1,035 per year for the visa duration.

Our professional fee will depend on the level of service you require.

Pricing

Recognising the dynamic needs of fast-growing businesses and talented professionals, Immtell offers expert assistance for Scale-Up Visa applications. Our two distinct service packages are designed to cater to various stages of the application process, ensuring tailored support for both companies and individuals.

🌟 Full End-to-End Support: Ideal for those seeking comprehensive guidance, this package covers every aspect of the Scale-Up Visa application. From initial eligibility evaluation to the final submission, our experienced team provides in-depth support, ensuring your application aligns with the specific requirements for Scale-Up Visa candidates.

📝 Application Review and Feedback: This service is perfect for applicants who have independently prepared their application but require a professional review. We thoroughly examine your completed application, offering constructive feedback and expert advice to enhance its effectiveness and compliance.

💡 Transparent and Flexible Pricing: We believe in clarity and transparency in our pricing, enabling you to understand our fees upfront. This approach facilitates informed decision-making, allowing you to choose the best service for your budget and needs.

📘 Seeking More Information? Our FAQ section is valuable for additional details on the Scale-Up Visa process and other related queries.

📞 Embark on Your Application with Expertise: Whether you need all-around support or a review of your application, our packages are tailored to meet your unique requirements. Contact us to discuss how we can facilitate a successful Scale-Up Visa application for you or your business.

Immtell's Typical Professional Fees

£ 1,500 + VAT

Eligibility assessment
CoS (Certificate of Sponsorship) drafting and assigning (if required)
Advice on English language and TB test requirements (if applicable)
Application preparation and online submission
Appointment booking
Responding to queries from the Home Office
Review of issued documents
Post-arrival Biometric Residence Permit accuracy check

Best Value

£ 500 + VAT

Specialist review of your prepared application
Assess application against the relevant rules and legislations
Provide feedback and recommendations for improvement (if applicable)

Why Choose Immtell for Your Scale-Up Visa Journey?

Navigating the visa application process can be daunting, but with Immtell, you have a trusted partner. Our dedicated team provides expert guidance and assistance at each step, simplifying the process and enhancing your chances of a successful application.

Experience the Immtell Advantage

With a deep understanding of UK immigration laws and an unwavering commitment to client success, Immtell can provide invaluable support in your visa application process. Let our expertise simplify your journey to scaling success in the UK.