Senior or Specialist Worker visas

A clear starting point

Assess a temporary assignment to a linked UK business under Global Business Mobility. This page sets out the questions to consider before choosing an application and paying any charges.

Eligible employees transferring from an overseas employer to a linked UK sponsor. The correct approach depends on the exact permission, application location and immigration history involved. A similar-looking case may be subject to a different rule or transitional arrangement.

Who is this for?

Eligible employees transferring from an overseas employer to a linked UK sponsor.

General eligibility and requirements

The group relationship, overseas employment history, role skill level and salary need checking. This route differs from Skilled Worker and does not itself offer a direct settlement route.

Check the current official guidance for the intended submission date. If you have a previous refusal, an approaching expiry date or a change in circumstances, include that in your initial enquiry. These details may affect what is possible and how urgently you need advice.

Supporting documents

A useful evidence file addresses the specific requirements, with clear dates and consistent personal details. Depending on your circumstances, the following may be relevant:

• Group ownership records
• overseas employment history
• assignment details
• job description
• salary information
• certificate of sponsorship

This is a preparation list, not an exhaustive submission checklist. Check required formats, relevant evidence periods and translation requirements. Keep an exact copy of the final application and evidence. See our document preparation guide for a practical way to organise your records.

The application process

1. Establish the qualifying link between overseas and UK businesses and the purpose of the transfer. Compare Skilled Worker if the plan is a permanent UK appointment.
2. Check overseas employment, job duties, eligible occupation and salary. Prepare a certificate that accurately describes the assignment and the sponsored role.
3. Use the relevant Global Business Mobility application process. Track assignment changes and maximum stay conditions, and assess any future route separately.

For appeals, protection and employer compliance matters, the relevant procedure may be a review, tribunal process or ongoing duty rather than a visa application. The official source below identifies the appropriate starting point.

Government fees & processing times

Professional fees are separate from government charges. Ask for a written quote confirming scope, any VAT, exclusions and additional costs. Our fees information explains what to clarify. Paying for a faster service does not guarantee approval or a decision by a particular date.

Common issues to consider

Using this route for a permanent hire without comparing alternatives, missing the group link and misunderstanding maximum stay conditions.

Where a record is missing or inconsistent, explain the issue honestly and establish which evidence can address it. Do not amend a document to make it appear to meet a requirement. For help preparing for a discussion, read our consultation preparation guide.

Frequently asked questions