The UK Expansion Worker visa is part of the UK’s Global Business Mobility (GBM) scheme. It allows overseas companies to send a senior employee to the UK to set up a branch or subsidiary. This route is for businesses not yet established in the UK but planning to set up a presence.
If you're preparing to expand into the UK, this visa offers a structure for getting the right personnel on the ground. In this newsletter, we explain how it works, recent updates, and what it means for both businesses and sponsored workers.
What is the UK Expansion Worker visa?
The UK Expansion Worker visa allows a senior manager or specialist employee to come to the UK to launch a new operation. The UK entity must not yet be actively trading when applying. Once a branch or subsidiary is established, additional UK Expansion Worker migrants, or other routes such as the Skilled Worker or Senior/Specialist Worker visas may be used to bring in additional staff.
This route replaced the Sole Representative visa and introduced updated sponsorship rules.
Who can apply for this route?
This visa is intended for employees of the overseas parent company. To qualify, the worker must:
- Have worked for the business for at least 12 months (unless exempt)
- Be coming to the UK for a senior or specialist role
- Meet the salary threshold of £48,500 or the going rate for the job code, whichever is higher
- Hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from the UK entity
Partners and children may also apply as dependants.
Sponsorship requirements for UK employers
UK entities must hold a Global Business Mobility sponsor licence for this visa route. The Home Office will assess the business’s plans, finances, and HR systems before granting a licence.
A key 2025 update confirms that employers cannot pass any visa-related costs to the employee. This includes licence fees and Certificate of Sponsorship charges. These must be covered by the sponsor, or the licence may be at risk.
Key conditions for visa holders
Expansion Workers must work only in the role stated on their Certificate of Sponsorship. They cannot take on other employment or access public funds. This route does not lead to permanent settlement in the UK.
The visa is issued for up to 12 months and can be extended once, giving a maximum stay of 2 years. During this time, the UK branch must become operational. If trading has not started within two years, the route can no longer be used.
How long can a worker stay in the UK?
The maximum stay under this route is two years. After this, the worker must switch to another visa route to remain in the UK. Time on Global Business Mobility routes is capped at five years in any six-year period (unless exempt).
What employers should consider next
Businesses planning to use this route should act early. This includes applying for a sponsor licence, setting up compliance systems, and ensuring the employee meets all criteria. Planning the expansion timeline is key, as limits apply to both the number of workers and their duration of stay.
How 3CS can help
The UK Expansion Worker visa is a valuable option for companies entering the UK market. With careful planning and compliance, it can help launch a successful UK presence. Contact us today to discuss how 3CS Corporate Solicitors can support your next steps.
