Opportunity in an uncertain world: relocation and the global talent visa – a visa category for global leaders in their field

Many commentators have declared the advent of a new economic global order. Whether or not that proves to be true, changes in economic relations and geopolitics impact us all at some level. It has caused people to be concerned for their future and to reassess how and where they live, with many now looking to relocate and build a life elsewhere. An interesting and recent example of this is that during the US Presidential election in 2024, online searches relating to UK immigration by US nationals rose significantly, with searches up by 900% between 4 November 2024 and 6 November 2024 (the day before, during and after the US election).

The UK government has for some years now promoted the UK as a destination of choice for talented and economically and globally mobile individuals and families. The UK immigration system, particularly after Brexit, has emphasised attracting “the brightest and the best”, focusing on skilled workers and researchers. This was to be achieved in part through a points-based system which requires that individuals either be sponsored to work in the UK or can demonstrate they score the requisite number of “points” to be issued with a visa by some other means, for example, via their graduation from a prestigious university, or their ability to invest in the UK economy through entrepreneurial activity or direct investment.

However, at the same time, UK immigration routes have faced increased scrutiny and many have been removed, notably the tier 1 investor and entrepreneur visa categories, which closed in 2019 and 2022, respectively, and (in respect of the former) without replacement. This has presented challenges to individuals and families with private wealth who wish to make the UK their home and for whom sponsorship is not appropriate.

It is against this backdrop that the spotlight has increasingly fallen on the global talent visa category, which offers a potential visa route and alternative to the other closed or significantly narrowed immigration routes. This trend appears set to continue following the recent publication of the Government Immigration White Paper which aims to “attract the most desirable talent” to the UK whilst reducing overall net migration, signalling the significant role of the category by expanding it so that it is “simpler and easier for top scientific and design talent” (in addition to other industries and sectors already covered by the visa).

What makes the global talent visa category attractive?

The global talent visa is designed to attract highly skilled individuals in specific sectors like science, research, digital technology, and the arts to work in the UK.

Similar to the now closed tier 1 investor visa, it also affords the visa holder unfettered access to the job market and freedom to establish a business, as well as the opportunity to obtain accelerated settlement (i.e. permanent residence) after three years when usually settlement can only be obtained after accruing five years in a qualifying immigration category. There is also no minimum English language requirement for this type of visa. It is therefore an attractive route without a sponsorship element or need to report economic activity to the Home Office.

This visa allows the holder to stay in the UK for up to five years at a time and can lead to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in the UK or can be extended after the initial five-year period. It therefore offers a generous period of permission and flexibility in terms of the ability to extend time on the visa or to obtain permanent residence.

How does the global talent visa work?

The global talent visa category is designed for individuals who are leaders or potential leaders in certain fields of work, namely science, engineering, humanities, medicine, arts and culture, and digital technology.

The application process itself is in two stages. The first is an application to the relevant endorsing body for them to make a decision on whether an individual qualifies as a leader or potential leader under the criteria set out in the immigration rules. The second is the visa application itself.

The criteria differ depending on which discipline the visa is being applied for under and the corresponding relevant endorsing body’s guidance.

What are the challenges of entry into the visa category?

Entry to the global talent visa category can be a challenge. Firstly, it is restricted to certain fields of work, which means that it may not be suitable for all individuals. It is important, therefore, to consider if the skills and experience are held in the relevant area.

Secondly, the visa category is aimed at individuals considered to be leaders, or potential leaders, in their field who must first obtain an endorsement from an endorsing body or have been awarded a prestigious prize. The bar is set high, and insufficient evidence to demonstrate leadership or potential leadership within a particular field can lead to refusal, even though the individual may be very talented.

Thirdly, assessment by the endorsing body has both objective and subjective aspects and is a very information-heavy and front-loaded process. Therefore, rigorous attention to evidence and the preparation of submissions for the endorsement application is key. Finally, the endorsement application alone does not extend permission to stay in the UK, which may be a consideration if an individual’s existing permission is coming to an end and there is a tight timescale for submission of a new application. For all of the above reasons, early advice is recommended.