What Is the UK Scale-Up Visa?
The Scale-Up visa is designed to help fast-growing UK businesses attract and recruit skilled workers from overseas. It provides greater flexibility to both employers and workers than the standard Skilled Worker route. A defining feature is that after six months of working for the sponsoring company, the visa holder is free to change employers without needing a new sponsor.
What Is a Scale-Up Company?
A scale-up company is one that has achieved an annualised growth rate of at least 20% per year over a three-year period in either staff numbers or turnover, with a minimum of ten employees at the start of that period. The Home Office maintains a list of approved scale-up sponsors, and the employer must hold a valid Scale-Up sponsor licence before issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Who Is Eligible?
- A confirmed job offer from an approved scale-up sponsor
- A Certificate of Sponsorship for an eligible role
- Minimum salary of £36,300 per year or the going rate — whichever is higher
- Role at or above RQF Level 6
- English language requirement met
What Happens After Six Months?
After completing six months of employment with your sponsoring scale-up employer, you are no longer required to remain with that employer. You can move to other employers, become self-employed, or undertake a combination of work without requiring a new sponsor. This makes the Scale-Up visa an attractive option for high-calibre professionals who value career flexibility.
Does the Scale-Up Visa Lead to Settlement?
Yes. The Scale-Up visa is valid for up to two years initially. After five years of continuous lawful residence in the UK — which may include time on other visa categories — you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, and ultimately British citizenship.