Important Update: The Intra-Company Relocation Visa pathway has been phased out for new applicants. Senior managers or specialist employees seeking a similar route should now consider the Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker Visa.

What Was the Intra-Company Relocation Visa?
This visa was designed for employees affiliated with global corporations who were transitioning to a UK branch to fulfill a skilled role.

Eligibility hinged on having been employed by your overseas company for a minimum of one year unless a UK salary of £73,900 or above was anticipated.

Key Qualification Criteria Included:

• Being 18 years or older.
• Current employment with an organisation endorsed by the Home Office.
• Overseas employment under the sponsor or an associated business for a minimum of 12 months unless expecting to earn £73,900 or above in the UK.
• Holding a genuine Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the intended role.
• Genuine role verification.
• Ensuring the role met the requisite skill level.
• Earning a minimum of £41,900 or the role’s ‘going rate’.
• Confirmation of Immigration Skills Charge payment by the sponsor.
• Adequate personal funds to ensure no reliance on public funds.
• A valid TB certificate when mandated.

Duration of Employment & CoS Criteria:
For those earning below £73,900 annually, 12 months of employment outside the UK with the sponsor was essential. Certain breaks, like maternity leave, were considered exceptions. The CoS had to be from a Home Office-approved employer and contained specifics like your name, role, salary, and more.

Ensuring a Genuine Role:
It was imperative to demonstrate the authenticity of the job role, with the Home Office conducting checks to ensure no misuse.

Skill Level & Salary Expectations:
The role should have matched the defined skill level set by the Home Office. Additionally, the salary package needed to be at par with the standards defined for the occupation.

Financial & Skills Charge Regulations:
A minimum fund of £1,270 was essential unless specific exemptions applied. Additionally, sponsors were required to cover the Immigration Skills Charge.

Switching & Duration Details:
Switching from certain immigration categories to the Intra-Company Transfer was possible. If approved, the visa duration was decided based on various factors, including the CoS duration.

Conditions & Settlement Pathways:
While this visa allowed holders to work and perhaps study in the UK, it didn’t pave the way for settlement directly.

For Dependents:
Spouses or partners above 18 and children below 18 could accompany or join the visa holder.

How Highwood Solicitors Can Assist:
At Highwood Solicitors, our seasoned team of immigration solicitors offers expertise in navigating the complexities of business immigration. With a deep understanding of the needs of global enterprises, we craft strategies ensuring seamless transitions and alignment with immigration goals. Known for our client-centric approach, our commitment is to provide precise, reliable immigration guidance, ensuring a smooth process for multinational employees.

To discuss further or for any other immigration-related advice, kindly reach out to our dedicated immigration team at Highwood Solicitors on +44 (0) 1206523714 or use our contact form.