The Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa lets you come to the UK for training, work experience, research or a fellowship under an approved exchange scheme — not to fill an ordinary job. This 2026 guide explains the schemes, how long you can stay, sponsorship, cost and the settlement catch.
What is it for?
It’s a Temporary Work route for genuine exchanges: work experience, training, research, fellowships or an Overseas Government Language Programme, run through an approved Government Authorised Exchange scheme.
How long can you stay?
- 12 months — work experience and internships;
- 24 months — research, training and language programmes.
Requirements
- a Certificate of Sponsorship from an overarching body that holds a GAE sponsor licence, under an approved scheme;
- the role must not fill a normal UK vacancy — it must be genuine training or exchange;
- about £1,270 in savings to support yourself.
Cost, work and settlement
Budget around £340 plus the IHS (about £1,375 for 12 months, £2,410 for 24). You can do up to 20 hours a week of supplementary work in the same sector and level, or a job on the Immigration Salary List. Note: time on this visa doesn’t count towards settlement — to stay long-term you’d switch to a route like the Skilled Worker visa.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Government Authorised Exchange visa?
A Temporary Work route for training, work experience, research or fellowships under an approved exchange scheme.
How long does it last?
Up to 12 months for work experience and internships, or 24 months for research, training and language programmes.
Do I need a sponsor?
Yes — a Certificate of Sponsorship from an overarching body that holds a GAE sponsor licence, under an approved scheme.
Can the role fill a normal UK job?
No — it must be genuine training or exchange that doesn’t fill a UK vacancy.
How much does it cost?
Around £340 plus the IHS (about £1,375 for 12 months or £2,410 for 24), and £1,270 in savings.
Can I work extra hours, and does it lead to settlement?
You can do up to 20 hours a week of supplementary work, but time on this visa doesn’t count towards settlement.
