Secondment Worker Visa
The Secondment Worker visa enables you to enter the UK on a specific contract to work on behalf of your employer.
To know more about the Secondment Worker visa, how you can acquire the same, or more about the Global Business Mobility visas, contact our legal experts today. Contact us online and at +2080162308.
The Secondment Worker visa enables you to enter the UK on a specific contract to work on behalf of your employer.
To know more about the Secondment Worker visa, how you can acquire the same, or more about the Global Business Mobility visas, contact our legal experts today. Contact us online and at +2080162308.
What is a Secondment Worker Visa UK?
The UK Secondment Worker visa is a sponsored business immigration category that falls within the global business mobility (GBM) category. This type of visa is designed for overseas businesses seeking to supply UK-based organizations with employees to undertake high-value contracts, thereby enabling businesses to thrive and expand their trade relations in the UK.
The Secondment Worker visa is an additional route, unlike some other UK routes, which replace the old visa types. This is another visa route introduced to increase trade and contribute to the UK economy.
Applicants may either seek entry clearance outside the UK or leave to remain within the UK, provided they do not hold (or have not most recently held) a visa as a Visitor, Short-term Student, Parent of a Child Student, Seasonal Worker, Domestic Worker in a Private Household, or any other permission granted outside the Immigration Rules of the UK.
o be eligible to obtain a Global Business Mobility – UK Secondment Worker Visa, you must meet the requirements of the UK Visas and Immigration, which are:
- You are above 18 years.
- An overseas business is already employing you, and a contract with your sponsor of at least 50 million has been registered with the Home Office by the sponsor (unless you are applying for an extension to work with the same sponsor);
- You have been working in that overseas business outside the UK for a total of at least 12 months (unless you are seeking an extension to work within the same sponsor).
- You possess a legitimate Certificate of Sponsorship from your UK sponsor, regarding the job you intend to perform;
- You are going to do real work.
- The work that you will undertake is within good skill status.
- You have received sufficient funds to keep you going without being on the public money.
- You present a valid TB certificate, if required.
The specific requirements you will be required to meet can also change depending on your situation. An immigration lawyer might be an expert whom you would like to consult.
By the time you apply for a Secondment Worker visa, you must be able to pay the application fee, pay the health surcharge for each year you intend to stay, and cover your costs when you arrive in the UK – you will usually be required to have a specific amount of money available, unless you are exempt. When you apply, you will be informed of the exact amounts. You need to have sufficient funds in your bank account to demonstrate that you can support yourself. This money must have been in your account during the 28 consecutive days preceding the end of the 28-day period, which must be within 31 days of the application date.
Unless you have been in the UK for 12 months or more with a valid visa, or an agreement to pay your costs in your first month in the UK with a sponsor, you will almost always need to provide evidence of this. Your spouse and children will also be required to establish that they are self-sustaining during their stay in the UK. Your sponsor will be asked to confirm their sponsorship by signing off in the box in the ‘Additional data’ section, specifically in the ‘Sponsor certifies maintenance’ section. Historical guidance on financial evidence and requirements should always be verified to obtain the most current information.
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To apply, you need to submit:
- Reference number of certificate of sponsorship (your UK sponsor)
- Valid passport or ID that helps prove your identification and nationality
- Occupational code and occupation code
- Name of the sponsor and sponsor licence number (The number will appear on your certificate)
- Either documentation of adequate personal savings (e.g., bank statements), except when your sponsor certifies support
- Relationship evidence in case of any dependents applying together with you
- Results of TB tests in case they are needed in your country
Request that your sponsor provide your Certificate of Sponsorship if you do not have it.
Additional Documents (If Applicable)
You might also be required to give:
- Documents that state that you have worked for your employer abroad (payslips, bank statements, or a letter from your sponsor)
- ATAS certificate in case you are engaging in sensitive research at a PhD level or above
- Any document that is not in English or Welsh should have a certified translation.
Reminder: If you have to visit a visa centre to provide biometric information, you will require one blank page on your passport.
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A Secondment Worker Visa cannot be applied for in the UK. There are several key considerations to take into account before starting, including the documents to expect, such as the Certificate of Sponsorship and passport, as well as any additional supporting documents that may be requested.
You should also demonstrate your identity as part of your application. The method you use may vary depending on your nationality and the type of passport you hold. You’ll either:
- Scan your ID using the UK Immigration: ID Check app to sign in to your UKVI account or create a new one.
- Visit a visa application centre and use your fingers to take a photo (biometric data).
When you apply, you will be informed which option is relevant to you. When you require an appointment, the centre may retain your passport and documentation during the application process, and you may be required to travel if a centre is not available nearby.
When you start your internet application, you have the option to save the form and continue later, as needed. Should you save your application, you can sign in again at any time and continue.
As long as you have applied online, authenticated yourself, and presented your papers, you are likely to receive a decision within 3 weeks. It may not be completed in time when the UKVI requires verification of your record, or if you need to attend an interview, or if issues arise, including the discovery of a criminal record. There are instances where a quicker decision can be made.
When you proceed to apply, and you need to change or withdraw your application, please contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). You are only eligible to receive a refund of your fees when your application is still pending processing. You will receive an email or letter on the decision and the next course of action.
Can Your Family Join You on a Secondment Worker Visa?
Yes, a UK Secondment Worker is allowed to take their spouse and children who are not self-sufficient, provided they comply with the eligibility conditions for dependents. This applies to unmarried partners who are over 18 years old and have been cohabiting with the applicant in a relationship analogous to marriage or a civil partnership for at least 2 years. The union must be genuine and you should intend to cohabitate in the UK.
Dependants have to be present in the UK at the time of application to extend or switch and cannot apply where they have or last had a visa as a Visitor, Short-term Student, Parent of a Child Student, Seasonal Employee, Domestic Worker in a Private Household, or leave not under the Immigration Rules.
For eligible dependents, they are required to apply online, demonstrate their identity, provide biometrics and supporting evidence, pay the visa fee, and the healthcare surcharge. They may also be necessary to fulfill a financial requirement.
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You can also apply to renew your Secondment Worker visa whilst in the UK, provided:
- You still work under the same UK sponsor, who has granted your current certificate of sponsorship
- And you are still working on the same contract between your employer and your sponsor
- You have not yet retired to the fullest extent
The visa of your spouse or child will not automatically be extended; they must apply to have it extended. They can apply concurrently with you or at any time before their visa expires.
You need to be in the UK at the time of the application and cannot leave the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man until you receive a decision; otherwise, your application will change.
In case your occupation changes, you will be required to extend your visa rather than renew it.
Make the online application before your existing visa expires. This allows you to save your form for completion later, if needed.
To confirm your identity as part of your application, you will need to provide either the UK Immigration: ID Check app or visit a UKVCAS service point to give fingerprints and a photo.
You can expect a decision within 8 weeks. However, it may take longer, especially when UKVI requires documents to be verified, when it wants to invite you to an interview, or when it needs to review your situation. For a premium, an expedited decision is possible.
You must contact UKVI if you need to amend or withdraw your application. Your fee will be refunded only in cases where processing has not yet begun.
We will send you an email or letter notifying you of the next steps.
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You should renew your Secondment Worker visa if you switch occupation codes on your job, but you must remain with the same sponsor. Before their visa expires, your partner and children will also need to apply separately and update their visas.
Your new position will require you to meet all eligibility terms, and you will need to obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship. You could be asked to resubmit your supporting documents even if you have not spent more than one year in the UK.
Timing of application: You may apply at any time, but no later than three months prior to the commencement of your new job. During the processing of your application, you may remain on duty in your present position, but you should not take up the new position before a decision is reached. You will also need to stay in the UK until a decision is made on your application; otherwise, it will be rejected.
How to apply:
- Submit an online application, and before your existing visa expires.
- Identify yourself to the UK Immigration: ID Check app or at a UKVCAS service point.
- Provide your fingerprints and photo (biometrics). No charge here either
It typically takes 8 weeks to make a ruling. Quick processing is available for an additional charge.
You can also change to a Secondment Worker visa if you were previously in another type of visa and meet the conditions. When transferring a Student visa, you must have completed your course or have been pursuing a PhD for at least 24 months.
You cannot switch when you are in the UK on a visit visa, short-term student visa, Parent of a Child Student visa, seasonal worker visa, domestic worker visa, immigration bail, or out of rules permission when you need to leave the UK to make your application.
It is essential to note that your partner or child’s visa will not be automatically changed when you do; they will need to apply for it separately.
Complete your online application and verify your identity in the same manner, and remain in the UK until a decision is made. The response you can expect to receive will arrive within 8 weeks.
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ISUK knows that it can be confusing and time-consuming to apply to become a Secondment Worker, or to vary, extend, or change an existing one. We have experienced immigration specialists who are here to simplify the process for you. We assist you in verifying your eligibility, preparing and submitting the required documents, completing your online application, and ensuring that you review it, as well as establishing your right to identity. At any time you need to add your dependents, revise your job details, or change your visa type, we guarantee to do it all promptly and efficiently. We also follow up with UKVI regarding you and keep you updated at each step of the way. ISUK provides expert support to help you secure your visa hassle-free and with confidence.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a UK Secondment Worker Visa?
The Secondment Worker Visa is a route for applying under the Global Business Mobility category. It allows a foreign firm to deploy workers to the UK to perform on premium-paying contracts. This aids companies to thrive in trade and increase business relations in the UK.
Can my family accompany me on a Secondment Worker Visa?
Yes, you can bring your spouse, partner, and children, provided they satisfy the rules. Unmarried partners need to have cohabited with you for at least 2 years. Dependants have to claim individually and demonstrate that they can maintain themselves.
Can I do the Secondment Worker Visa application within the UK?
You are not able to apply within the UK once you have or previously had particular visas, such as a Visitor or Short-term Student visa. In this instance, you are required to apply outside the UK. Exceptions to the same sponsor extensions are some.
And what are the key criteria to qualify for a Secondment Worker Visa?
You must be at least 18 years old and employed by an overseas business with a qualifying contract. You require a legal Certificate of Sponsorship and sufficient funds to support your application. Your country may require a TB test.
How long is the decision-making process for a Secondment Worker Visa?
The average wait time is 3 weeks to receive a decision when applying overseas and 8 weeks when applying within the UK. It may take additional time if further checks are required. A faster call can be obtained by paying an extra amount.
Did I have to prove the funds of myself and my family?
Yes, you usually have to demonstrate that you can afford yourself and any dependents. The amount of money should have been in your bank within 28 days. Others are exempt provided they fulfill some conditions.
Can I renew or change my Secondment Worker Visa?
Provided the conditions are met and you retain the same sponsor, you may renew or change your visa. Your visas do not automatically roll over to your family members; they must apply. You should remain within the UK until a decision is reached.
