United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland · work sponsored
Scale-up visa
Sponsored route for workers joining qualifying fast-growing UK scale-up businesses, with faster settlement timelines.
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Overview
The Scale-up visa is a sponsored route specifically for employees joining companies that meet prescribed growth criteria (annualised revenue or employee growth of 20%+ over 3 years). After the first 6 months, the visa holder is no longer tied to the sponsor and may work flexibly.
Processing time
Typically 3 weeks from outside the UK after CoS assignment.
See source window: 3 weeks – 8 weeks →Government fees
Application fee plus IHS £1,035/year. Verify current on GOV.UK.
Typical duration
2 years; extendable; leads to settlement after 5 years.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
Job offer from a Home Office–registered Scale-up sponsor.
Qualifying occupation and salary threshold.
English at CEFR B1.
Common blockers
Sponsor does not meet growth criteria for Scale-up endorsement.
Salary below the Scale-up route's minimum.
Typical evidence
Scale-up sponsor's Certificate of Sponsorship.
English-language evidence.
Passport and supporting documents.
Application pathway
Step 1
Secure offer from a Scale-up–registered sponsor
The sponsor must appear on the Scale-up Sponsor register.
Step 2
Receive Certificate of Sponsorship
CoS references the Scale-up route and occupation code.
Step 3
Apply for visa
Submit the online application and attend biometrics.
Step 4
Work flexibly after 6 months
After the initial 6 months with the sponsor, the visa holder may change employers or be self-employed without a new CoS.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I switch employers on a Scale-up visa?
Yes, after an initial 6-month period with the sponsoring Scale-up employer. After that, the visa is unsponsored and permits flexible work.
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