Whether you want to apply, extend, or switch to a Global Talent visa from inside or outside the UK, call our immigration solicitors in London at 020 3417 3700. We can help with your Global Talent visa application by providing expert guidance, legal advice, and support throughout the process.

Table of Contents

  1. What is the Global Talent visa?
  2. Things to know about Global Talent visa
  3. Requirements for UK Global Talent visa
  4. What are the stages involved in the Global Talent visa process?
  5. Global Talent visa fees
  6. UK Global Talent visa processing time
  7. How can we help with your Global Talent visa application?
  8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
  9. Need legal advice and assistance?

What is the Global Talent visa?

The Global Talent visa is a type of work visa offered by the United Kingdom to individuals who are recognised as leaders or potential leaders in the fields of academia or research, arts & culture, or digital technology. The visa is designed to attract highly skilled individuals and talented professionals to contribute to the growth and innovation in the UK.

Things to know about Global Talent visa

  • No Job Offer Requirement: Unlike some other work visas, the Global Talent visa does not require applicants to have a job offer before applying.
  • Flexibility: The visa provides flexibility for individuals to work or be self-employed and switch jobs without the need for a new endorsement.
  • Endorsement from a Designated Competent Body: To apply for the Global Talent visa, individuals need to secure an endorsement from a designated competent body. These bodies vary depending on the applicant's field of expertise. For example, in science, this could be the Royal Society or the Royal Academy of Engineering.
  • Points-Based System: The Global Talent visa operates on a points-based system, where applicants need to accumulate a certain number of points based on their achievements, skills, and endorsements.
  • Fast-Track Endorsement for Recognised Leaders: Those who are already internationally recognised as leaders or have demonstrated exceptional promise can apply for the fast-track endorsement process.

Requirements for UK Global Talent visa

The specific requirements for the Global Talent Visa in the UK can vary depending on the applicant's field. Here are the general requirements:

  • Age: Applicant must be 18 or over when applying for a Global Talent visa.
  • Endorsement: Obtain an endorsement from a designated competent body in your field. The endorsing bodies include organisations such as the Royal Society, Royal Academy of Engineering, Arts Council England, and others, depending on the category.
  • Application for the Global Talent Visa: Apply for the Global Talent Visa within three months of receiving the endorsement.
  • Financial Requirement: Show that you have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds.
  • English Language Proficiency: While there is no specific English language test requirement for the Global Talent visa, applicants may need to demonstrate English proficiency if deemed necessary by the immigration authorities.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) Test: Depending on your country of residence, you may be required to undergo a TB test and provide a certificate as part of the visa application.

You must also meet all the other eligibility requirements depending on the type of application and your circumstances.

What are the stages involved in the Global Talent visa process?

Endorsement application and visa application are the two stages involved in the Global Talent visa application process.

Endorsement Stage

The first stage involves applying to a designated competent body for endorsement. The competent bodies are specific organisations related to the applicant's field, such as the Royal Society, Royal Academy of Engineering, Arts Council England, or other relevant organisations depending on the category (digital technology, arts & culture, etc.).

The applicant needs to demonstrate that they are a leader or have the potential to be a leader in their field. The criteria for endorsement vary depending on the field but generally include factors such as significant achievements, recognition, and impact in the respective field.

Visa Application Stage

Once the applicant receives an endorsement from the competent body, they can proceed to the second stage, which involves applying for the actual Global Talent visa through the UK visa application process.

During this stage, applicants need to submit the necessary immigration documentation, including proof of endorsement, evidence of identity, financial stability, and other required documents.

Applicants are typically required to provide biometric information as part of the visa application process.

The UK authorities will review the application, and if successful, the applicant will be granted the Global Talent visa, allowing them to live and work in the UK.

Global Talent visa fees

The application fee for a Global Talent visa depends on the type of application and where you apply from.

Please note that these fees are subject to change, and you should always check the most up-to-date information on the UK government's official website before applying for a visa.

UK Global Talent visa processing time

On average, Global Talent visa applications made outside the UK take up to 3 weeks. You may be able to use priority service to get your visa faster depending on what country you're in.

Applicants are advised to check the latest information about UK visa application processing time on the official UK government website either applying from inside the UK or outside the UK.

How can we help with your Global Talent visa application?

Our expert team of UK immigration solicitors and lawyers can assist you with any type of UK Global Talent visa application.

Immigration solicitors at Wembley Solicitors will:

  • Provide detailed immigration advice.
  • Assess your circumstances and eligibility for a UK visa application.
  • Explain the entire UK visa application process.
  • Give you a completed checklist of documents according to the type of visa application and your circumstances.
  • Check all the supporting documents to ensure that they are sufficient and in the correct format.
  • Fill out the complete application form and prepare detailed representations/cover letter for the Home Office UKVI about the Immigration Rules.
  • Book an appointment for you to enrol your biometrics.
  • Upload all the supporting documents.
  • Liaise with the Home Office UKVI throughout the process until we receive the decision.
  • Keep you updated with every stage of your visa or immigration application.

Contact our immigration solicitors in Wembley, London on 020 3417 3700 or fill in the enquiry form for immediate legal advice & assistance with your UK visa application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Individuals with exceptional talent or potential in specific fields, including academia or research, arts and culture, or digital technology, are eligible to apply. The visa is open to both individuals already recognised as leaders and those showing promise in their respective fields.

No, the Global Talent visa does not require a job offer. It is designed to be flexible, allowing individuals to work, be self-employed, or switch jobs without the need for a new endorsement.

You might be able to apply to change (‘switch’) to a Global Talent visa without needing a new endorsement if you’re already in the UK on a different type of visa.

The visa can be granted for up to five years initially, with the possibility of extension. After a specified period, individuals may also be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK.

Yes, family members, including spouses or partners and dependent children, can apply to join Global Talent visa holders in the UK.

There are no specific English language requirements for the Global Talent visa. However, individuals may need to demonstrate their English proficiency in certain situations.

We provide expert advice, practical assistance, and professional representation to guide you through the application and decision-making process, from start to finish. 

We're authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), so you know you're in safe hands.

Contact our solicitor today to get legal advice and assistance with your UK immigration matters.

You can call us on 02034173700 or leave your details here for a callback request regarding your legal matter.

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