United Kingdom · Work Visas

Government Authorised Exchange

For individuals coming to the UK for approved internships, research, fellowship schemes, or language training programmes.

Who it suits

Who this pathway suits

Interns, researchers, and fellows on approved exchange schemes.

Eligibility

Eligibility at a glance

  • Endorsed by an approved overarching scheme sponsor
  • Role must be supernumerary (cannot fill a vacancy)
  • Paid national minimum wage
Process

How the process works

  1. Apply via overarching scheme sponsor
  2. Lodge visa application
  3. Granted for 12 to 24 months
Documents

Documents you will typically need

  • GAE CoS, internship agreement, degree certificates, passport
Good to know

What to keep in mind

Ideal for young graduates doing international internships in UK finance, engineering, or legal sectors.

Official source: GOV.UK — Government Authorised Exchange. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.

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