ArticleSecondment Worker Visa: Unlock UK Business Opportunities

The United Kingdom remains a global hub for innovation, commerce, and investment. For professionals seeking to bridge international business relations, the Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker Visa offers a unique pathway to facilitate high-value contracts or investments between overseas businesses and UK companies. While this route does not lead directly to settlement, it serves as a crucial link for companies to strengthen their foothold in the UK market and for employees to gain invaluable experience.

Here, we unravel the complexities of this visa category, providing an authoritative guide to its requirements, benefits, and potential pathways to settlement.

Who Is the Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker Visa For?

This visa is tailored for overseas workers temporarily seconded to the UK as part of a high-value contract or investment between their employer and a UK-based business. It is ideal for professionals who:

• Are employed by an overseas business with a significant contract or investment in the UK.
• Wish to work in the UK for up to two years without severing ties with their overseas employer.
• May later explore immigration routes leading to settlement.

Importantly, this visa permits applicants to bring their dependents, enabling partners and children to accompany or join them during their stay.

Eligibility Criteria: Key Requirements

To qualify for this visa, applicants must meet stringent eligibility criteria. Prospective applicants should ensure they satisfy the following conditions:

1. Age and Employment Status:
   • Must be aged 18 or over.
   • Currently employed by an overseas business that has a registered contract with the UK sponsor worth at least £50 million.
2. Work History:
   • Must have worked for the overseas business for a cumulative period of at least 12 months before the application, unless applying for an extension with the same sponsor.
3. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):
   • Must secure a valid CoS from a UK sponsor that is authorised by the Home Office to sponsor Secondment Workers.
4. Genuine Job and Skill Level:
   • The job must meet RQF Level 6 (graduate-equivalent) standards and be listed under eligible occupations in Appendix Skilled Occupations.
5. Financial Requirement:
   • Hold at least £1,270 in savings for 28 consecutive days or have their sponsor certify maintenance.
6. Additional Requirements:
   • Provide a valid TB certificate (if applicable) and refrain from accessing public funds during their stay.

Navigating the Sponsorship Process

The sponsorship system is central to this visa category. UK businesses looking to sponsor Secondment Workers must:

• Hold an A-rated sponsor licence issued by the Home Office.
• Register high-value contracts worth at least £50 million with the Home Office.
• Ensure compliance with sponsorship duties, including assigning the correct occupation codes to the roles they sponsor.

The Certificate of Sponsorship is pivotal, as it confirms essential details about the job, including its start date, salary, and eligibility under the rules.

Exemptions and Flexibilities

Certain exemptions make this visa more accessible. For instance:

• Applicants extending their stay with the same sponsor are not required to meet the overseas work requirement.
• Employers are exempt from paying the Immigration Skills Charge, a notable advantage for businesses.

Conditions of Stay and Switching Options

While the Secondment Worker Visa does not directly lead to settlement, applicants can explore pathways that do. Many use this route as a stepping stone to the Skilled Worker Visa, the Start-Up Visa, or other settlement routes. Additionally:

• Visa holders may undertake voluntary work or short courses.
• Dependents, including partners and children, can join them in the UK, enhancing family cohesion during their assignment.

Limitations and Maximum Stay

The maximum duration for this visa is two years, with extensions allowed up to 12 months. However, individuals cannot spend more than five years in any six-year period under Global Business Mobility or Intra-Company routes.

What Sets This Route Apart?

Unlike traditional routes like the Skilled Worker Visa, the Secondment Worker Visa is not salary-dependent and does not require applicants to meet English language standards. This flexibility makes it an attractive option for professionals working on international collaborations without committing to long-term UK settlement.

Reflecting on the Secondment Worker Visa’s Role

As the UK strengthens its position as a global business hub, this visa category plays a vital role in fostering international partnerships. By enabling seamless mobility for overseas workers, it bridges the gap between global businesses and the UK economy. For applicants, it offers a unique opportunity to gain exposure to the UK’s professional landscape while continuing their career trajectory with their overseas employer.

For businesses, the Secondment Worker Visa allows the exchange of expertise and strengthens cross-border investments. However, navigating its complexities requires meticulous planning and compliance with Home Office regulations. Seeking expert legal advice ensures a smooth application process, paving the way for successful collaborations.

Final Takes

The Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker Visa is a forward-thinking initiative that embodies the UK’s commitment to fostering international business relations. While it demands careful navigation of requirements, the potential benefits for businesses and professionals are immense.

If you’re considering applying for this visa or need guidance on your eligibility, contact our dedicated immigration team for tailored advice. With the right support, you can make the most of this valuable opportunity to contribute to high-value global collaborations.