UK Scale-up visa

What is the Scale-up visa?

Introduced to support rapidly growing UK businesses, the Scale-up visa allows skilled workers to join qualifying companies without long-term sponsorship restrictions. After an initial six-month sponsored period, visa holders can work for any UK employer or be self-employed for the remainder of their stay.

Key benefits of the Scale-up visa

• No ongoing sponsorship after the first six months.
• Freedom to change employers or become self-employed.
• Pathway to settlement (ILR) after five years.
• Dependants (partner and children) can join you.

Snapshot of eligibility criteria

• Job offer from a Home Office-approved Scale-up sponsor.
• Role at RQF Level 6 or above (graduate level).
• Minimum salary: £39,100 per year or ‘going rate’ for the role.
• English language requirement (CEFR B2 or higher).
• Maintenance funds: £1,270 unless certified by sponsor.

How long you can stay

• Initial grant: two years.
• Extensions: three years at a time.
• Eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain after five years if requirements are met.

Scale-up visa application process

1. Confirm your employer is an approved scale-up sponsor.
2. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS).
3. Apply online via GOV.UK.
4. Provide biometrics and supporting documents.
5. Pay visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.

Scale-up visa fees & healthcare surcharge

• Visa fee: £880 per applicant.
• Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year.
• Priority services available for faster decisions.

Conditions – What you can and cannot do

You can work for your sponsor for an initial six months, then for any employer or as self-employed.

You cannot access public funds or work as a professional sportsperson.

Switching & settlement

You may switch into the Scale-up route from eligible UK visas. After five years of continuous residence, you can apply to settle permanently in the UK through Indefinite Leave to Remain.

How our immigration lawyers can help

Our immigration advisors can provide:

• Eligibility checks and sponsor verification.
• Document review and compliance advice.
• Application drafting and submission support.
• Strategic planning for settlement and dependants.

Start your Scale-up visa application

Contact one of our specialist immigration lawyers today for a free initial enquiry. We offer fixed-fee consultations, document checks, and full representation to ensure your Scale-up visa application is accurate and compliant.