Approved scheme sponsors can use the Government Authorised Exchange route for structured work experience, training, research, fellowships and knowledge exchange. It is not a general employment route, so HR teams must ensure the placement fits an approved scheme.
Previously known as the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker) Government Authorised Exchange route.
Reviewed by the Morgan Smith Immigration team — IAA-regulated UK immigration specialists. Last reviewed 2026-07-14.
TL;DR
The Government Authorised Exchange Visa covers structured work experience, training, research and fellowship placements under approved exchange schemes. The application fee is £340, the maximum stay is up to 12 or 24 months depending on the scheme, and the usual outside-UK decision time is 3 weeks.
£340
Application fee
12 or 24 months
Maximum stay
3 weeks
Typical decision
What is the Government Authorised Exchange Visa?
The Government Authorised Exchange Visa is for people coming to the UK under an approved exchange scheme. It can cover work experience, training, research, fellowships, overseas government language programmes and similar structured schemes.
For scheme sponsors and HR teams, the crucial check is that the placement genuinely sits within an approved exchange scheme rather than ordinary employment. The sponsor must keep records, assign the correct sponsorship document and ensure the placement matches the scheme’s purpose.
This is a temporary route and does not lead directly to settlement. Applicants who want to remain in the UK longer-term normally need to switch into another eligible route before their permission expires.
Eligibility Requirements
You must satisfy all three conditions to qualify for the Government Authorised Exchange Visa.
📄
Approved Exchange Scheme
The placement must sit within an approved GAE scheme. The scheme rules determine the maximum length and what activity is permitted.
💼
Certificate of Sponsorship
The applicant needs a CoS or sponsorship reference from the approved sponsor. The role must match the scheme purpose and cannot be ordinary permanent employment.
£
Financial Requirement
The applicant must show maintenance funds unless their sponsor certifies maintenance. The usual Temporary Work threshold is £1,270 unless exempt.
What You Can and Cannot Do
Your rights and restrictions while in the UK on a Government Authorised Exchange Visa.
✓ You Can
- Work in the sponsored placement described on the CoS.
- Take part in training or research under the approved scheme.
- Do a second job for up to 20 hours weekly where permitted.
- Study subject to ATAS rules for some courses.
- Bring eligible dependants if they meet the rules.
✗ You Cannot
- Take a permanent job in the UK.
- Access public funds during the visa period.
- Use the route for settlement directly because it is temporary.
- Work outside the scheme purpose or sponsor conditions.
- Use an unapproved scheme as the basis of the application.
Costs & Fees
Current fees as of 2026. Set by the Home Office — subject to change.
Fees set by the Home Office and subject to change. Last reviewed: July 2026.
| Item | Cost (2026) |
|---|---|
| Application fee | £340 per person |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £1,035 per year |
| Savings required | £1,270 unless exempt |
| Certificate of Sponsorship | £55 (paid by sponsor) |
| Priority services | Additional fee — check current fees |
How to Apply
Five steps from preparation to decision.
Check Route Fit
Confirm the applicant meets the Government Authorised Exchange Visa eligibility requirements and that the role or activity fits the route.
Assign or Check Sponsorship
The sponsor should assign the correct Certificate of Sponsorship or approved sponsorship reference before the applicant applies.
Submit the Online Application
Apply online and pay the £340 application fee plus any healthcare surcharge due.
Attend Biometrics or Use the App
Provide identity evidence through the UK Immigration: ID Check app or at a visa application centre.
Receive Your Decision
Outside-UK applications are usually decided within 3 weeks; in-country applications are usually listed as 8 weeks where available.
Speak to Our Team Today
Fill in the form and an immigration specialist will be in touch within one business day.
Request a Consultation
Tell us about your case
Sources
Legal information on this page is based on guidance from GOV.UK, the UK Home Office / UK Visas and Immigration, legislation.gov.uk, and Free Movement. Rules change frequently — speak to our team to confirm current requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Government Authorised Exchange Visa from employers and applicants.
What is the Government Authorised Exchange Visa UK?
The Government Authorised Exchange Visa is a Temporary Work route for people coming to the UK under an approved exchange scheme.
How much does the GAE Visa cost in 2026?
The Home Office application fee is £340 per person. Applicants may also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge and any optional priority-service fee if available.
How long can you stay on a Government Authorised Exchange Visa?
The maximum stay is usually 12 or 24 months depending on the approved scheme.
What is an approved Government Authorised Exchange scheme?
It is a scheme approved under the Immigration Rules for temporary exchange activity such as work experience, training, research or fellowships.
Can the GAE Visa be used for a permanent job?
No. The route is for approved temporary exchange schemes and must not be used to fill permanent vacancies.
Does a GAE Visa require sponsorship?
Yes. The applicant normally needs a Certificate of Sponsorship or sponsorship reference from an approved scheme sponsor.
Can GAE Visa holders bring dependants?
Eligible partners and children can apply as dependants if they meet the requirements.
Does Government Authorised Exchange lead to settlement?
No. It is a temporary route and does not lead directly to indefinite leave to remain.
How long does a GAE Visa decision take?
Outside-UK work visa applications are usually decided within 3 weeks; in-country Temporary Work applications are usually listed as 8 weeks.
What should sponsors check before using GAE?
Sponsors should confirm the placement fits the approved scheme and keep evidence that it is genuine temporary exchange activity.
Need Help With Your Government Authorised Exchange Visa?
Our immigration specialists handle everything from sponsor licence checks to visa approval — for employers and applicants alike.