The Senior or Specialist Worker visa allows you to come to or remain in the UK to undertake a qualifying job at your employer’s UK branch. This visa has replaced the Intra-company Transfer visa, which was previously known as the Tier 2 (Intra-company Transfer) Long-term Staff visa. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the eligibility requirements, application process, and benefits of the Specialist Worker visa.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Senior or Specialist Worker visa, applicants must meet several key requirements:
- Current Employment: You must be an existing employee of an organisation that has been approved by the Home Office as a sponsor.
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Your employer must provide you with a certificate of sponsorship, detailing the nature of your job in the UK.
- Eligible Occupation: The job you intend to do in the UK must be listed on the Home Office’s list of eligible occupations.
- Minimum Salary: You must be paid at least £48,500 per year.
Navigating the eligibility criteria can be complex, but at DJF Lexvisa Solicitors, our experienced legal team will ensure your application is thorough, accurate, and optimised for approval.
Duration of Stay
The duration you can stay in the UK with a Senior or Specialist Worker visa depends on whichever is shorter:
- The period stated on your certificate of sponsorship plus an additional 14 days, or
- A maximum of 5 years.
You have the option to extend your visa or apply for a new one as often as necessary within the allowed maximum total stay. This is particularly advantageous if you are keen to continue working in the UK long-term. If you’re already in the UK with an Intra-company visa or a Tier 2 (Intra-company Transfer) Long-term Staff visa, you can easily transition to the Senior or Specialist Worker visa.
Maximum Stay Conditions
- 5 years in any 6-year period if your annual salary is less than £73,900.
- 9 years in any 10-year period if your annual salary is £73,900 or more.
It’s important to note that any time spent in the UK under specific other visas will count towards your maximum total stay. Our specialist solicitors at DJF Lexvisa have extensive experience managing these complexities and can provide tailored advice based on your unique circumstances.
How to Apply
Application Process:
You must apply for the Senior or Specialist Worker visa online. The process varies slightly depending on whether you are applying from outside the UK, seeking to extend your stay, or switching from a different visa. Your partner and children can also apply to join you in the UK as your dependants, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.
Our team at DJF Lexvisa Solicitors will handle every aspect of your visa application, ensuring all necessary documentation is prepared correctly and submitted on time. This includes assisting with the preparation of your certificate of sponsorship and any additional evidence required.
Processing Times:
The time it takes to get a decision on your visa application generally depends on where you apply from:
- 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
- 8 weeks if applying from within the UK.
Our solicitors will help you navigate any potential delays, ensuring a smooth and timely application process.
What You Can and Cannot Do
The Senior or Specialist Worker visa grants you several rights during your stay in the UK:
Permitted Activities:
- Work for your sponsor in the job described in your certificate of sponsorship.
- Engage in studies or voluntary work.
- Bring your eligible partner and children as dependants.
- Travel abroad and return to the UK.
Restrictions:
- You cannot apply for most benefits, public funds, or the State Pension.
- You must not change jobs unless you update your visa.
- Holding a second job is restricted unless you have had a prior Intra-company Transfer visa or a Tier 2 (Intra-company Transfer) Long-term Staff visa.
- You are not eligible to apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK.
Understanding these restrictions is crucial, and DJF Lexvisa Solicitors can provide clear guidance on how to comply with your visa conditions, avoiding any potential legal pitfalls.
Why Choose DJF Lexvisa Solicitors?
The application process for a Senior or Specialist Worker visa is detailed and requires precision. The expert team at DJF Lexvisa Solicitors offers:
- Expertise: Our solicitors specialise in UK immigration law, with particular expertise in business mobility visas.
- Personalised Service: We provide tailored advice based on your individual situation, ensuring your application meets all necessary requirements.
- Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to the final submission, we manage every aspect of the visa application process.
- Proven Success: Our track record of successful visa applications speaks for itself, providing you with the confidence that your case is in capable hands.
Choosing DJF Lexvisa Solicitors means opting for a service that prioritises your success. Our team’s deep understanding of the UK immigration system ensures that your Senior or Specialist Worker visa application is handled with the utmost care and professionalism.
Conclusion
The Senior or Specialist Worker visa is a valuable pathway for employees wishing to bring their expertise to the UK. While the process may seem daunting, DJF Lexvisa Solicitors are here to make it as straightforward as possible. With our expert guidance, you can be assured that your application will be completed accurately and efficiently, maximising your chances of success. Contact us today to start your application process with confidence.