Deploying high-value staff to the UK can be a complex process, especially when it comes to navigating the intricacies of the UK Secondment Worker Visa. This visa is designed to facilitate the temporary transfer of key personnel from an overseas company to a UK-based branch or partner. Understanding the requirements, application process, and potential challenges of this visa is crucial for any business looking to expand its operations in the UK. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the UK Secondment Worker Visa, offering valuable insights for businesses and workers alike.
Understanding the UK Secondment Worker Visa
The UK Secondment Worker Visa, also known as the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa, is designed for employees of multinational companies who are being transferred by their overseas employer to a UK branch. This visa category is particularly relevant for high-value staff, including managers and specialists, who possess knowledge and skills that are essential to the UK operation.
Key Requirements
There are several key requirements that both the employer and the secondment worker must meet to be eligible for the ICT Visa. These include:
- The worker must be employed by an overseas company that has a UK branch or a linked company in the UK.
- The worker must have worked for the overseas company for at least 12 months prior to the transfer, unless they will earn £73,900 or more in the UK.
- The job in the UK must be at a skill level of RQF6 or above, equivalent to a graduate level job.
- The worker must be paid at least the minimum salary requirement, which varies depending on the job.
Application Process
The application process for the UK Secondment Worker Visa involves several steps:
- The UK company must assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to the worker. This is an electronic record, not a physical document, and each one has its own unique number which the worker will need to include in their application.
- The worker must apply online for the visa. They will need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre (to get a biometric residence permit) as part of their application.
- The worker must pay the visa fee and the healthcare surcharge as part of their application.
Duration and Conditions
The UK Secondment Worker Visa allows workers to stay in the UK for the time given on their certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days, up to a maximum stay of 5 years. After this, they may be able to extend their visa or apply for another type of visa.
While in the UK on this visa, workers can work for their sponsor in the job described in their certificate of sponsorship, do a second job in certain circumstances, and bring family members with them. However, they cannot access public funds, start their own business, or work in a different job from the one specified in their certificate of sponsorship.
Challenges and Considerations
While the UK Secondment Worker Visa can be a valuable tool for businesses looking to deploy high-value staff to the UK, there are several challenges and considerations to keep in mind:
- Processing times can be lengthy, especially if the UK company does not yet have a sponsorship licence.
- The minimum salary requirement can be a barrier for some businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises.
- The requirement for the job to be at a graduate level may exclude some roles.
- Workers on this visa are subject to the Immigration Health Surcharge, which can add a significant cost to the overall process.
Conclusion
The UK Secondment Worker Visa is a complex but potentially valuable tool for businesses looking to deploy high-value staff to the UK. By understanding the requirements, application process, and potential challenges, businesses can make informed decisions and ensure a smooth transition for their workers in the UK.
