Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility)
Transferring experienced managers and specialist staff from an overseas parent company to a linked UK branch.
Checked against official Immigration Rules & GOV.UK guidance on 2026-10-30
The Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (formerly Tier 2 Intra-Company Transfer) allows multinational corporations to transfer key managerial and technical staff to a linked UK corporate entity. To qualify, workers must have worked for the overseas linked business for at least 12 continuous months (unless earning £73,900 or more per year, in which case the 12-month rule is waived).
Salary & Maximum Duration Rules
- Minimum Salary: At least £48,500 per year or the occupation's going rate (whichever is higher).
- Maximum Cumulative Stay: Up to 5 years in any 6-year period for standard earners; or up to 9 years in any 10-year period for high earners earning £73,900+ per year.
Key Requirements & Highlights
- Minimum salary threshold of £48,500 gross per year.
- Requires 12 months continuous prior employment with linked overseas entity (waived for £73,900+).
- No English language test required.
- Can switch into the Skilled Worker route from within the UK to pursue settlement.
Step-by-Step Application Timeline
- Verify LinkConfirm UK sponsor and overseas employer share common ownership or joint venture control.
- Assign CoSSponsor assigns Senior or Specialist Worker CoS.
- ApplySubmit online application via GOV.UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can time on this visa lead to settlement?
Time on the Senior or Specialist Worker route does not count towards 5-year work settlement, but counts towards 10-year Long Residence ILR, and workers can switch into Skilled Worker to access 5-year settlement.
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.