UK Expansion Worker Visa Guidance
The UK Expansion Worker Visa is designed for senior managers and specialist employees of overseas businesses that are expanding into the United Kingdom for the first time. This visa allows key personnel to enter the UK to establish a new UK branch or subsidiary, where the overseas business has not yet started trading in the UK.
What Is a UK Expansion Worker Visa?
The UK Expansion Worker Visa falls under the Global Business Mobility route. It allows overseas companies to send high-ranking staff members to the UK to set up operations before the business becomes fully established and licensed to sponsor workers locally.
This route does not require the UK business to already be trading, making it ideal for early-stage expansion.
Eligibility Requirements for a UK Expansion Worker Visa
To qualify for a UK Expansion Worker Visa, you must meet specific criteria set by the Home Office.
Core Eligibility Criteria
You must:
Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from your employer
Have worked for your employer outside the UK
Be employed in an eligible occupation
Meet the minimum salary requirement
Be genuinely undertaking the role stated in your application
We recommend an eligibility assessment before applying to ensure compliance with all immigration rules.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is issued by your overseas employer and contains essential details about your role in the UK.
Key CoS Requirements
Issued by a business authorised under the UK Expansion Worker route
Includes your job role, salary, occupation code, and employer details
Must be valid at the time of application
The CoS is a mandatory requirement and must be issued before you apply for the visa.
Salary Requirements for UK Expansion Worker Visa
Minimum Salary Threshold
You must be paid at least £42,400 per year or the going rate for your occupation—whichever is higher.
Salary requirements are strictly enforced, and incorrect salary levels are a common reason for refusal.
Length of Employment Requirement
Overseas Employment Condition
You must have worked for your employer outside the UK for at least 12 months, unless you fall under one of the following exceptions:
You earn £73,900 or more per year, or
You are a Japanese national working for a Japanese business expanding into the UK
Documents Required for a UK Expansion Worker Visa Application
You must submit comprehensive supporting evidence with your application.
Required Documents
Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
Valid passport or identity document
Job title, annual salary, and occupation code
Employer name and valid sponsor licence number
Evidence of personal savings (if required)
Proof of relationship for dependants (if applicable)
Tuberculosis test certificate (if applicable)
Failure to provide accurate documents can lead to delays or refusal.
Switching to a UK Expansion Worker Visa
You may be able to switch to a UK Expansion Worker Visa if you are already in the UK on an eligible visa category and meet all requirements.
Important Notes
Switching depends on your current immigration status
Dependants must apply separately
Not all visa categories allow switching
Extension of a UK Expansion Worker Visa
You may apply to extend your visa if:
You remain in the same role
You continue working for the same employer
Your employer still holds valid sponsorship
Extensions are subject to eligibility checks and Home Office approval.
Processing Time for UK Expansion Worker Visa Applications
Standard Processing Times
Most applications are processed within 3 weeks
Processing times may increase if:
Additional verification is required
An interview is requested
Documents need clarification
Priority services may be available depending on location.
Solicitor Fees for UK Expansion Worker Visa
Our solicitor fees vary depending on the complexity of the application and whether dependants are included.
Fee Information
For a personalised fee quote, please contact us directly for a consultation.
How Can We Help With Your UK Expansion Worker Visa?
Our experienced immigration solicitors provide:
Eligibility assessments
Sponsor and CoS guidance
Document preparation and review
Application drafting and submission
Ongoing Home Office correspondence
We act for businesses and individuals worldwide.
Get in Touch With Us
Hire our specialist immigration solicitors to support your UK Expansion Worker Visa application and ensure a smooth and compliant process.
Contact Primus Solicitors today to discuss your business expansion plans and start your application with confidence.
