Overview

The Global Talent Visa is designed for individuals who are recognised leaders or emerging leaders in fields such as academia, research, arts and culture, or digital technology.
This visa allows highly skilled professionals to live and work in the UK without needing a specific job offer or employer sponsorship. It provides the flexibility to work for different organisations, establish a business, or collaborate internationally, and offers a clear route to permanent residence for those who continue contributing to their sector.

Visa Duration and Extension

Successful applicants can stay in the UK for up to 5 years initially.
You can choose the length of your stay (from 1 to 5 years).
You may extend the visa as many times as you wish, provided you continue to meet eligibility and endorsement requirements.
You may apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after:
- 3 years – if endorsed as a recognised leader (“exceptional talent”).
- 5 years – if endorsed as a promising leader (“exceptional promise”).
Time spent under this route counts toward the residence requirement for settlement.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the Global Talent Visa, you must:

Be 18 or over.
Work in one of the following sectors:
- Academia or Research
- Arts and Culture (including film, fashion, architecture, design, dance, literature, etc.)
- Digital Technology (including AI, fintech, software, and tech entrepreneurship)
Either:
- Hold an eligible prestigious prize or award recognised by the Home Office, or
- Obtain an endorsement from an approved endorsing body such as:
  - Royal Society
  - British Academy
  - Royal Academy of Engineering
  - UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)
  - Arts Council England
  - Tech Nation-designated digital body (for technology sector applicants)
Demonstrate that your work is recognised internationally and that you are a leader or potential future leader in your field.
There is no English-language or financial maintenance requirement at the endorsement stage; however, this will be assessed during the visa application itself.

Documents Required

When applying, you must usually provide:

A valid passport or travel document.
An endorsement letter or proof of a qualifying award.
Evidence of your achievements such as:
- Publications, exhibitions, patents, or portfolio.
- Press coverage, industry awards, or professional testimonials.
Proof of relationship for dependants (if applicable).
Tuberculosis (TB) test results (if required).
Certified translations for any documents not in English or Welsh.

What You Can and Cannot Do

You can:

Work for any employer or be self-employed.
Establish a business or join an existing one.
Take on multiple projects or contracts without restriction.
Bring your partner and children as dependants.
Travel freely in and out of the UK.
Apply for settlement (ILR) after meeting residence and endorsement requirements.

You cannot:

Work as a professional sportsperson or sports coach.
Access public funds or benefits.

Processing Times and Priority Service

Outside the UK: approximately 3 weeks after biometric submission.
Inside the UK (switching or extension): around 8 weeks.
Priority and Super Priority services may be available for an additional fee.
Delays may occur if further evidence or interviews are required.

Home Office Fees

Endorsement application: £524
Visa application (main applicant): £192 (if applying at the same time as endorsement) or £716 (if endorsement already granted)
Each dependant: £716
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per person per year
Fees are correct as of October 2025 and may change.
Endorsement and visa applications can be made together or separately.