Notice: The High Potential Individual Visa route is no longer open for new applications. Overseas workers looking to transfer to the UK for work placements as part of a graduate training program should now consider the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa.

The objective of the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa is to facilitate workers transferring to the UK as part of a tailored graduate training initiative, paving their way into managerial or specialist roles.

To be eligible, candidates should have a minimum of 3 months’ overseas employment with their current employer before the application date.

Essential Criteria for the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa:

To successfully apply for the visa, applicants must meet the following UK Visas and Immigration stipulations:

• Minimum age of 18 years.
• Current employment with a Home Office-approved sponsor organisation.
• At least 3 months of overseas work with the sponsoring organisation or a linked company.
• A valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the intended role in the UK.
• The proposed role must be genuine and align with skill level requisites.
• A salary of at least £23,000 or 70% of the industry standard for the position, whichever is greater.
• Settlement of any necessary Immigration Skills Charge by the sponsor.
• Sufficient funds for self-sustenance without dependence on public welfare.
• A valid TB certificate, when applicable.

For comprehensive guidance, consider consulting an immigration solicitor for tailored advice.

To discuss the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa with Highwood Solicitors, UK, reach out to our immigration team at +44 (0) 1206523714 or fill in our Online form.

Visa Duration and Employment Tenure:

For the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa, candidates must have worked for their overseas employer continuously for at least 3 months without any interruption, excluding any UK tenure, prior to the visa application.

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Guidelines:

A valid Certificate of Sponsorship is crucial. This must be granted by a Home Office-recognised employer under the Graduate Trainee route. The CoS must contain:

• Details of the applicant, job designation, and salary.
• Verification of at least 3 months’ overseas employment before applying.
• A start date no later than 3 months post-application.
• Confirmation that the CoS hasn’t been used for any previous granted or denied application, and hasn’t been withdrawn or cancelled.

Job Authenticity and Skill Level Criteria:

Applicants must assure the Home Office that they are sponsored for a genuine job role. The role should be part of a systematic graduate training program, aiming at a managerial or specialist position within the sponsoring company.

Salary and Financial Provisions:

Employers must remunerate their skilled workers with a wage that meets or exceeds both a general threshold of £23,000 annually and 70% of the standard rate for the role, depending on the occupation code.

Switching and Duration Provisions:

Applicants can transition to the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee route from other immigration categories, with certain exceptions. The duration for which the visa is granted depends on several factors, with a maximum stay of 5 years in any 6-year span.

Conditions and Settlement:

Visa holders can work for their sponsor in the role detailed on their CoS and can undertake other specific roles or courses of study. Public funds access is restricted, and this visa doesn’t directly lead to UK settlement. However, switching to another route might be a viable option.

Dependant Provisions:

Dependants, including partners over 18 and children under 18, can accompany the Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee Visa holders.

How Highwood Solicitors Can Assist:

Our team of seasoned immigration solicitors at Highwood Solicitors, UK, adeptly assist employers and skilled professionals from diverse sectors. We specialize in devising strategies to align with your career ambitions and immigration objectives.

Our client-centric approach, combined with our dedication to delivering impeccable and transparent immigration counsel, sets us apart. Connect with us for reliable guidance tailored to your professional journey.