The UK wants to attract the very best and brightest talent from around the world. On 20 February 2020, we launched the Global Talent route, under the current system for non-EU citizens, to improve the UK’s attractiveness to highly skilled individuals with specialist skills. The route reformed and replaced Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) and is designed to attract recognised global leaders, and the leaders of tomorrow in science, humanities, engineering, the arts (including film, fashion design and architecture) and digital technology, enriching the UK’s knowledge, economy and society. Top scientists and researchers are able to benefit from a quicker endorsement process as part of a fast track STEM scheme.
The Government has announced it will set up a cross-departmental unit called the Office for Talent. This will make it easier for leading global scientists, researchers and innovators to come and live and work in the UK.
Applicants must be endorsed by a recognised UK body, as approved by the Home Office. Individuals can apply to one of the following endorsing bodies who will verify their expertise before they can apply for a visa:
- The Royal Society, for science and medicine;
- The Royal Academy of Engineering, for engineering;
- The British Academy, for humanities;
- UK Research and Innovation, for science and research;
- Tech Nation, for digital technology;
- Arts Council England, for arts and culture.
Once endorsed, subject to criminality and immigration checks, migrants are given highly flexible permission, enabling them to work for employers or be self-employed; change jobs without informing the Home Office; travel abroad and return to the UK for research purposes, and bring dependants with them. There is no limit on the number of eligible individuals who can use the route.
Who can apply?
This route will be open to both EU and non-EU citizens.
Individuals internationally recognised at both the highest level and as leaders in their particular field, or who have demonstrated promise and are likely to become leaders in their particular area.
Fast-track Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics scheme
Science and research are at the heart of our modern Industrial Strategy. To facilitate access for top scientists and researchers, who will significantly enhance the intellectual and knowledge base of the UK, a fast-track endorsement process is available to EU and non-EU citizens. To benefit from this offer, individuals must be:
- in receipt of a named award or fellowship;
- in a senior academic position, such as a Professor or Associate Professor, within an eligible Higher Education Institution, research organisation or institute; and
- part of a publicly funded research team which is in receipt of prestigious funding or awards.
Table 3: Global Talent conditions and requirements
| Requirements | Conditions and restrictions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| English language | No | Capped | No |
| Application fee | Yes | Switching – routes (in-country) | Yes |
| Immigration Skills Charge | No | Route to settlement | Yes |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | Yes | Dependants | Yes |
| Biometrics | Yes | Access to funds | No |
| Maintenance | No | Supplementary work | Yes |
Additional:
- Endorsement from a recognised UK body approved by the Home Office (see paragraph 68)
- Endorsement fee (included in application fee)
- Flexible grant periods (up to 5 years)
- This is primarily a work route. Applicants can study certain disciplines but to do so must obtain an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
