Overview
The Scale-up Worker visa is designed for talented individuals recruited by UK businesses experiencing rapid growth. Unlike standard sponsored routes, this visa provides significant flexibility after an initial six-month period of sponsored employment. It is a route that can lead to permanent settlement in the UK after five years of continuous residence.
Who qualifies
To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and have a confirmed job offer from an approved UK scale-up business. The job must be at an appropriate skill level and meet a minimum salary threshold (the higher of £36,300 per year or the 'going rate' for your specific occupation). You must also demonstrate English language proficiency to at least CEFR level B2 and meet financial requirements, unless you have been in the UK for 12 months or your employer certifies your maintenance.
Application steps
- 1
Step 1: Secure a job offer
Obtain a job offer from a UK employer that holds a valid Scale-up sponsor licence.
- 2
Step 2: Receive Certificate of Sponsorship
Your employer will provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.
- 3
Step 3: Prepare documents
Gather evidence of your English language ability, financial savings, and identity.
- 4
Step 4: Apply online
Submit your application through the official UK government portal and pay the required fees.
- 5
Step 5: Verify identity
Use the 'UK Immigration: ID Check' app or attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre to provide biometric information.
Required documents
- Valid passport or identity document
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number
- Evidence of English language proficiency
- Proof of personal savings (if applicable)
- TB test results (if from a country where this is required)
PR, family, language & arrival
Path to longer stay / PR
You may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on this route, provided you meet the relevant salary and residency requirements.
Family options
You can bring your partner and children to the UK as 'dependants' if they are eligible. They must submit their own applications.
Language notes
You must prove your knowledge of English to at least level B2. Exemptions may apply if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country or have a degree taught in English.
After arrival
You must work in your sponsored role for the first 6 months. After this period, you are free to change employers, work in any role, or become self-employed.
Common pitfalls
- Failing to meet the minimum salary threshold for the specific occupation code.
- Assuming the sponsor licence is valid without verifying the employer's status.
- Not having sufficient funds in a personal bank account for the required 28-day period (if not exempt).
- Misunderstanding the English language requirement level (B2).
FAQs about Scale-up Worker visa
Who is the Scale-up Worker visa for?+
Highly skilled workers who have received a confirmed job offer from a UK business that meets specific high-growth criteria and holds a valid Scale-up sponsor licence.
What are the eligibility requirements for Scale-up Worker visa?+
To qualify, you must be at least 18 years old and have a confirmed job offer from an approved UK scale-up business. The job must be at an appropriate skill level and meet a minimum salary threshold (the higher of £36,300 per year or the 'going rate' for your specific occupation). You must also demonstrate English language proficiency to at least CEFR level B2 and meet financial requirements, unless you have been in the UK for 12 months or your employer certifies your maintenance.
How much does the Scale-up Worker visa cost?+
Typical fees listed for Scale-up Worker visa: Application fee is £937. You must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (currently £1,035 per year for adults).. Always confirm on the official government site.
How long does Scale-up Worker visa processing take?+
ImmigraPath currently lists processing time as: Typically up to 3 weeks for applications outside the UK and up to 8 weeks for applications inside the UK..
How long can I stay on the Scale-up Worker visa?+
Initial grant of 2 years; extendable by 3 years at a time; leads to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after 5 years.
Can I work on the Scale-up Worker visa?+
For the first 6 months, you must work in your sponsored job. After 6 months, you have the flexibility to change jobs, work for any employer, or become self-employed without needing further sponsorship.
Does Scale-up Worker visa lead to permanent residence in United Kingdom?+
You may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on this route, provided you meet the relevant salary and residency requirements.
What are common mistakes with Scale-up Worker visa?+
Failing to meet the minimum salary threshold for the specific occupation code. Assuming the sponsor licence is valid without verifying the employer's status. Not having sufficient funds in a personal bank account for the required 28-day period (if not exempt).