UK Scale-up Worker Visa
For talented professionals joining fast-growing UK scale-up businesses: sponsored for 6 months, then completely free to work unsponsored.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
The Scale-up Visa is an elite hybrid route designed for high-growth British enterprises that meet strict criteria (annualized turnover or employment growth exceeding 20% over 3 years, with at least 10 employees). Unlike the Skilled Worker route, workers are only tied to their sponsor for the first 6 months. After 6 months, they can switch employers freely without sponsorship.
Key Requirements & Highlights
- 6 months sponsored employment, followed by 18 months of completely unsponsored work.
- Employer must meet official definition of a high-growth UK scale-up company.
- Salary threshold: £36,300 per year and the occupation's going rate.
- 5-year route to permanent settlement (ILR).
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- Scale-up CoSSecure job offer from approved Scale-up sponsor; sponsor assigns CoS for 6-month initial period.
- 2-Year Initial GrantReceive 2-year visa; complete 6 months with sponsoring employer.
- Unsponsored FreedomAfter 6 months, remain with employer or change roles freely across the UK market.
- 3-Year Extension & ILRExtend for 3 years unsponsored (evidencing PAYE earnings of £36,300+) and settle at Year 5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do employers pay the Immigration Skills Charge on the Scale-up route?
No! Scale-up sponsors are 100% exempt from the Immigration Skills Charge (£1,000/year saving).
Need Guidance on Your Application?
Priyanshu Decodes provides clear route explanations, document planning, and consultation calls. For regulated legal advice or formal Home Office representation, always consult an IAA-registered adviser or an immigration solicitor.