Scale-up Worker visa

Who this pathway suits

Skilled professionals joining rapidly growing UK scale-up companies.

Eligibility at a glance

• Job offer from an authorized UK Scale-up sponsor for at least 6 months
• Job at RQF Level 6 (graduate level) or higher
• Salary meeting the Scale-up minimum threshold (£36,300+ or going rate)
• English proficiency at CEFR Level B1

How the process works

1. Sponsored for initial 6 months by scale-up employer
2. After 6 months, can switch jobs or work without employer sponsorship
3. Extend for 3 years unsponsored
4. Qualify for ILR after 5 years

Documents you will typically need

• Certificate of Sponsorship, B1 English certificate, passport

What to keep in mind

Only the first 6 months require employer sponsorship. After that, you are completely free to change employers without Home Office permission.