Global Talent Visa
Work, Live, Thrive in the UK. The third largest tech ecosystem in the world.
Welcome to the Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent Visa enables the best tech talent from around the world to work in the UK’s digital technology sector, contributing their cutting edge expertise and creative skills.
Whether you’re an experienced coder or an established tech marketeer, our top tier visa offers great flexibility and freedom. You and your family will be able to seize opportunities enriching your lives and careers, without having to regularly update your visa status.
Why join the Tech Nation Global Talent Visa
Flexibility
Change your job or start up on your own without needing to update your immigration status.
Family Programme
Your spouse and any children under 18 can come with you. Get more info here.
Low Cost
The total cost of application is only £716 per person (+ UK healthcare surcharge).
Amazing Network
Join our network of over 2000 visa alumni members, to share your skills, knowledge and opportunities.
Who can apply
The Global Talent Visa allows top tech talent worldwide to contribute to the UK’s digital technology sector without being tied to a specific role, company, or job offer.
Applicants apply via the following pathways:
Exceptional Talent
If you are well-established in your career (5+ years) and have a strong track record in your particular field, you should explore this pathway. If you have recognition in the technology industry through receiving reputable industry awards, speaking at prominent tech events, being featured in well known publications, either online or in print.
If technical background, you have published open source code to a reputable platform and received significant engagement.
These are just some of accomplishments that signify a strong leadership profile in the technology industry. Both technical and business skills are eligible.
Exceptional Promise
If you are earlier in your career (5 years or less), with a strong academic record or you are making significant contributions to innovative or impactful projects either in your own tech company or as an employee, this pathway could be perfect for you. You will also need to be able to:
Demonstrate your potential to be a future leader and your strong contribution to a new digital field. You should also have 3 senior stakeholders within product-led digital tech who are willing to vouch for your abilities and achievements.
How it works
All visa applications can take a while and so it’s important you give yourself enough time to prepare your application and for it to be processed. We recommend that you give yourself up to 12-weeks to prepare your application, to ensure you have enough time to gather all of the necessary documents.
Apply for Endorsement
Apply for endorsement. Complete the Government application form and submit your documents to Tech Nation.
Await your confirmation
UK Home Office inform you of the outcome within 8 weeks.
Apply for your UK Visa
Apply for the Visa. Submit proof of endorsement and all biometric information (if you’re relocating with family, you’ll upload their info here too).
Await final confirmation
UK Home Office inform you of your application outcome within 3 weeks.
FAQs
I am currently in the UK on a different visa, can I switch to the Global Talent visa?
You can switch to the Global Talent visa whilst in the UK on another visa, however you cannot apply to switch if you’re currently in the UK in one of the following circumstances:
- on a visit visa
- on a short-term student visa
- on a Parent of a Child Student visa
- on a seasonal worker visa
- on a domestic worker in a private household visa
- on immigration bail
- you were given permission to stay outside the immigration rules, for example on compassionate grounds
You must leave the UK and apply for a Global Talent visa from abroad if you’re in one of these categories. All information on switching to the Global Talent visa can be found on the Home Office website.
When do Visa applications open and close?
Whilst the formal process runs between April to April each year, there is no open or close date regarding applications for the Global Talent visa.
Can Tech Nation advise me on my application or my supporting documents prior to submission?
No, we are unable to review your documents prior to submission. Please ensure that you carefully read the official Guidance from Home Office for the Global Talent visa, as well as Tech Nation’s Guide. Sending your application to Tech Nation before submission will not increase your chances of endorsement and may delay your application being processed.
What types of roles are eligible for the Global Talent Visa?
Both Technical and Business type roles are eligible for the Global Talent Visa. There are no formal restrictions regarding role types or specialisms, partly due to the fast-changing nature of the technology sector. However, within our guide, you will find a list of example roles that are considered suitable and unsuitable for this visa route.
Where do I send my application?
The application process for Stage 1 is completely online, you do not need to physically post any documents. To submit your application, you must first apply to the Home Office for endorsement by Tech Nation. Once you have completed this Home Office application, you must then complete a Tech Nation Visa application form. You can save and return to your application at any time before submitting. After submitting you will not be able to amend or provide additional documents.
How do I track the progress of my application?
You will receive an update from the Home Office on when your payment has been processed and again when Tech Nation has been notified of your application. Tech Nation will not provide you with an update directly as all correspondence must go via the Home Office.
Can I apply for Settlement in the UK (also known as Indefinite Leave to Remain)?
You may be eligible for Settlement under this visa route. The qualifying period depends on whether your visa is granted under the criteria for either Exceptional Talent (3 years) or Exceptional Promise (5 years).