The Global Talent visa is designed for individuals working at a high level in academia and research, digital technology, and arts and culture. It is often favoured by applicants who wish to develop their careers in the UK without the constraints associated with sponsored work routes.
A common point of enquiry is whether an application can be made from within the UK, rather than from overseas. In most cases, switching into the Global Talent route is permitted, provided the requirements of the Immigration Rules are met.
Who can switch to the Global Talent visa from inside the UK?
Most applicants who are already in the UK are permitted to switch into the Global Talent route.
Eligible categories include individuals currently holding permission as:
- Skilled Workers
- Students, including PhD candidates (subject to additional requirements)
- Graduate visa holders
- Scale-up Workers
- Innovator Founder visa holders
- Holders of Tier 2, Tier 5 (GAE), Start-up and Tier 1 visas
- Partners and children of most major visa routes
Partners and children must apply separately to switch their visas, although they may apply at the same time as the main applicant or at a later date.
Who cannot switch from within the UK?
Switching into the Global Talent route is not permitted for applicants currently in the UK on the following types of permission:
- Visitor visas
- Short-term Student visas
- Parent of a Child Student visas
- Seasonal Worker visas
- Domestic Worker in a Private Household visas
- Immigration bail
- Leave granted outside the Immigration Rules, including on compassionate grounds
Individuals in these categories are required to leave the UK and submit a Global Talent application from overseas.
Eligibility requirements
To switch to a Global Talent visa, applicants must be in the UK.
Applicants who have won an eligible prestigious prize may apply directly for the visa without needing an endorsement.
Those who have not won a qualifying prize must first obtain an endorsement confirming that they are a leader or potential leader in one of the following fields:
- Academia or research
- Arts and culture
- Digital technology
If the applicant is currently in the UK on a Student visa, one of the following must also apply:
- The applicant has completed the course for which their Student visa was granted; or
- The applicant has been studying full-time for a PhD for at least 24 months
Applicants must submit the visa application within three months of receiving an endorsement. An application cannot proceed if the endorsing organisation has withdrawn its approval.
The endorsement and visa stages
Switching into the Global Talent route is handled through two linked stages, unless the applicant can apply directly because they have won an eligible prestigious prize. Where endorsement is required, the first stage is an application to the appropriate endorsing body to confirm that the applicant is a leader or a potential leader in their field, based on their skills, achievements and professional standing. Endorsement is available in academia or research, arts and culture, and digital technology.
Once an endorsement has been granted, the visa application is then submitted to the Home Office from within the UK. This second stage concerns the immigration application itself, including identity checks, immigration documentation and suitability under the Immigration Rules and the application must be made within three months of the endorsement being issued.
Length of stay and settlement
Applicants may choose how long they wish to apply for, up to a maximum of five years at a time.
Applicants who already hold settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme do not need to apply for a Global Talent visa.
Fees and healthcare surcharge
The cost of switching to a Global Talent visa is £766.
- Where an endorsement is required, the fee is split between the endorsement application and the visa application.
- Applicants applying on the basis of a prestigious prize pay the full fee at the visa stage.
Each dependant is required to pay a separate application fee. Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of the application process.
There is no charge for providing biometric information.
Processing times and travel restrictions
Decisions are typically made within eight weeks of the application date. Priority services may be available in some cases.
Applicants must not travel outside the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man while their application is under consideration. Travelling outside this area will result in the application being withdrawn.
Conclusion
For many individuals already living and working in the UK, switching into the Global Talent route can be a decisive step towards greater professional freedom and long-term stability. However, the endorsement process is highly selective and the strategic presentation of evidence is critical.
Early advice can help determine whether Global Talent is the right route for you, identify the appropriate endorsing body and ensure that your application is aligned with both the Immigration Rules and the expectations of the endorsing panel.
Follow us to stay updated on the latest UK immigration changes. With over 20 years of experience and a steadfast commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all your immigration needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with UK visa applications and provide tailored advice for your circumstances. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
