In this article, we answer FAQ’s about the Global Talent visa, read to find out key information.
Global Talent visa versus Skilled Worker visa
There a variety of key differences between the Global Talent visa and the Skilled Worker visa:
| Global Talent visa | Skilled Worker visa |
| Fast tracked 3 year route to settlement. | Standard 5 year route to settlement. |
| Lower application fee of £716 for 5 years. | Higher fee of £1,500 for 5 years. |
| Applicants have the flexibility to choose length of visa for a period of up to 5 years. | Standard option of a 3 or 5 year visa. |
| Freedom to travel. Your travel will not count towards the maximum time period for absences from the UK if you choose to apply for settlement later on. | Under the Skilled Worker, your global travel counts towards the maximum time period for absences from the UK if you choose to apply for settlement later on. |
| Unsponsored visa category. You have the flexibility to change roles or employers and enter self-employment. You can set up a spinout company or earn money from avenues such as freelance consultancy without seeking permission from the Home Office. | In order to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa, you need sponsorship from an employer or a prospective employer. You cannot change employers or jobs unless you apply to update your visa. |
Do I need a job offer for the Global Talent visa?
No. You do not require a job offer to apply for the Global Talent visa. This is part of what makes this visa category so appealing.
How much does it cost to get a Global Talent visa?
The fee for a Global Talent Visa is £716 plus the immigration health surcharge of £1,035 per year of visa length. The immigration health surcharge is mandatory and must be paid in full at the same time that you submit the application.
Global Talent visa applications can be made based on an eligible prestigious award or based on an endorsement. Both of which need to be recognised by the Home Office.
Those applying for a Global Talent visa based on an eligible prize pay £716 when submitting their applications.
Those applying based on an endorsement pay you pay the £716 fee in 2 parts:
£192 when you apply for the visa itself
£524 when you apply for the endorsement.
You may also have to pay a fee to the endorsement body.
Can I bring dependents?
Yes. You can bring dependents with you. Your dependents will also have to pay the £716 visa fee as well as the immigration health surcharge.
How long can you stay in the UK on a Global Talent visa?
The Global Talent visa is very flexible because applicants have the freedom to choose the length of their visa when they apply. When first applying for the visa, you can apply to stay in the UK for up to 5 years. The visa can be renewed multiple times.
Is the Global Talent visa a permanent visa?
No. The Global Talent Visa is not permanent visa. However, unlike the Skilled Worker visa, the Global visa offers a fast traced 4 year route to settlement as opposed to 5 years.
Can I switch to a Global Talent visa?
Yes. It is possible to switch to the Global Talent visa from within the UK if you meet all of the requirements.
However, you will not be able to switch into the Global Talent visa if you hold a visa in one of the following categories:
Visitor visa.
Seasonal worker.
Short-term student.
Domestic worker in a private household.
What are the benefits of the Global Talent visa?
The Global Talent visa has an array of benefits:
Unsponsored visa category – The Global Talent visa is an unsponsored visa category which means that you have the flexibility to change roles or employers and enter self-employment. You do not need a sponsor to enter the UK. You can also set up a spinout company or earn money from other avenues such as freelance consultancy without seeking permission from the Home Office
Fast track to settlement – Unlike other visa categories, the Global Talent visa allows you to apply for settlement after 3 years as opposed to 5.
Flexibility – Flexibility to choose the length of your visa for up to 5 years.
Lower visa fees – A 5 years Global talent visa application costs £716 as opposed to £1,500 Skilled Worker visa application.
Freedom to travel – Unlike other visa categories, when you travel under this visa category, your travel will not count towards the maximum time period for absences from the UK if you choose to apply for settlement later on.
What is the success rate of the Global Talent visa?
According to Home Office statistics, in the year ending September 2023: there was a 58% rise (+1,492) in the Global Talent visas to 4,046 grants.
Is the Global visa a settlement visa?
No. The Global Talent Visa itself is not a a settlement visa however, it offers a fast tracked 3 year route to settlement.
If you would like more information about the Global Talent visa, click here to read our Global Talent visa Guide.
Written by Mya Alghali
Call to action
If you have questions or concerns or you would like straightforward immigration advice, or help with applying for a sponsor licence, Thomas Chase Immigration can help. Our processes are tried and tested. We offer an individual touch when assisting you and presenting the matter to UKVI.
