UK Scale-Up Worker Visa Guide

The Scale-Up visa allows skilled workers to take jobs with fast-growing UK businesses.

What is a Scale-Up Company?

Definition

• Rapid growth business
• 20%+ annual growth (employees or turnover)
• For 3 consecutive years
• Minimum 10 employees at start of growth

Benefits for Workers

• 2-year initial visa
• Path to settlement
• Can switch employers after 6 months
• Flexible working arrangements

Eligibility Requirements

For Applicants

• Job offer from scale-up company
• Minimum salary: £36,200/year
• English language: B1 level
• Sufficient maintenance funds
• Meet points requirement

Points Required

| Requirement | Points | |-------------|--------| | Job offer from scale-up sponsor | 20 | | Job at appropriate skill level | 20 | | English language B1 | 10 | | Minimum salary | 20 | | Total Required | 70 |

First 6 Months

Restrictions

• Must work for sponsoring employer
• Full-time position
• Same role as sponsored

After 6 Months

• Can change employers
• No new sponsorship needed
• Work for any employer

Settlement Pathway

After 5 years:

• Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain
• Meet residency requirements
• Pass Life in UK test
• English requirement (B1)

Application Process

1. Receive job offer from scale-up sponsor
2. Get Certificate of Sponsorship
3. Gather required documents
4. Submit online application
5. Provide biometrics
6. Receive decision

Costs

• Application fee: £625 - £1,423
• IHS: £1,035/year
• Processing: 3-8 weeks

Finding Scale-Up Employers

• UK government scale-up list
• Tech Nation companies
• High-growth sectors
• LinkedIn job searches

Contact Zafco for Scale-Up visa guidance.