Eligible Fields and Endorsing Bodies:

The Global Talent Visa covers a wide range of disciplines, each with specific endorsing bodies responsible for assessing your eligibility ²:

1. • Academia and Research:
     • • Endorsing Bodies: UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), The Royal Society, The British Academy, The Royal Academy of Engineering.

1. • Digital Technology:
     • • Endorsing Body: Tech Nation.

1. • Arts and Culture:
     • • Endorsing Body: Arts Council England.

1. • Science, Engineering, Humanities, and Medicine:
     • • Endorsing Bodies: The Royal Society, The British Academy, The Royal Academy of Engineering.

Application Process: A Two-Step Approach

The Global Talent Visa application involves two distinct stages:

Step 1: Endorsement Application:

• • Choose the Right Endorsing Body: Select the endorsing body that aligns with your field of expertise.

• • Gather Evidence: Prepare a comprehensive portfolio of evidence demonstrating your achievements and potential.

• • Submit Application: Submit your endorsement application to the chosen endorsing body.

• • Await Decision: The endorsement decision typically takes around 8 weeks.

Step 2: Visa Application (After Endorsement):

• • Complete Online Application: Fill out the online visa application form.

• • Pay Fees: Pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).

• • Provide Biometrics: Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).

• • Submit Documents: Submit all required supporting documents.

The Six Endorsing Bodies

Global Talent Visa Endorsing Bodies

Criteria for Endorsement

Each endorsing body has its own set of criteria and processes, but they generally fall into two categories:

• • Exceptional Talent Criteria : This assesses individuals who have already made significant contributions as leaders in their field.

• • Exceptional Promise Criteria : This evaluates applicants at an early stage in their careers who show potential to become future leaders and make substantial contributions.

There are four main routes to endorsement under the Global Talent category:

1. • Peer Review : Applications endorsed by The British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering, or The Royal Society through peer review.

1. • Senior Appointments : Endorsement for applicants with job offers in senior academic or research positions at UK institutions.

1. • Fellowships : Endorsement for those holding current or recent individual fellowships approved by The British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering, and The Royal Society.

1. • Endorsed Funders : A streamlined visa route for researchers contributing critically to work supported by recognized funders, assessed by UKRI.

Sector-Specific Endorsements

1. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Digital Technology

Tech Nation is the designated endorsing body for the digital technology sector. There is no cap on the number of visas issued in this field. To qualify for endorsement, applicants must either:

• • Demonstrate technical proficiency in creating technological infrastructure and utilizing technology stacks.

• • Show commercial, investment, or product competence in developing digital products or managing investments in large digital enterprises.

Applicants must provide a detailed CV and three letters of recommendation from reputable organizations in the digital technology field, outlining their professional achievements and potential impact on the UK digital economy.

2. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Film & Television

The Producers’ Alliance for Film and Television (PACT) evaluates candidates in film, television, animation, post-production, and visual effects on behalf of Arts Council England. While there is no limit on the number of endorsements, only those demonstrating extraordinary skill will be considered. PACT does not support applications based on “exceptional promise.”

3. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Architecture

The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), acting on behalf of Arts Council England, determines whether applicants are leaders or potential leaders in architecture. Endorsement requires evidence of professional employment generating high-quality work published internationally. Applicants must also demonstrate consistent professional engagement over the past five years and a track record spanning multiple countries.

4. Visa Endorsement in Science, Engineering, Humanities & Medicine

The Royal Society, the Royal Academy of Engineering, the British Academy, and UK Research and Innovation evaluate applicants in natural sciences, engineering, humanities, and medical sciences. There is no cap on the number of endorsements. Requirements vary depending on whether applicants are evaluated under fast-track or full peer review criteria.

5. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Arts & Culture

Arts Council England assesses applications in combined arts, dance, literature, music, theatre, and visual arts. Endorsement requires proof of creating exceptional quality work performed or exhibited internationally. Applicants must demonstrate consistent professional practice over the last five years and a significant track record across multiple countries.

6. Global Talent Visa Endorsement in Fashion

The British Fashion Council (BFC), representing Arts Council England, evaluates applicants in fashion design. There is no cap on the number of endorsements. The BFC considers both current leaders and potential future leaders in the industry.

Global Talent Visa Based on Prestigious Prizes

In addition to the endorsement route, individuals who have received one of the prestigious prizes listed in Appendix Global Talent: Prestigious Prizes can apply directly for a Global Talent visa without needing endorsement. These prizes are recognized as indicators of exceptional talent by the endorsing bodies.

If you are the recipient of a qualifying prize, you benefit from a fast-tracked application process, bypassing the need for endorsement and proceeding straight to the visa application stage. There are no time restrictions on when the prize was awarded, provided it has not been withdrawn.

By offering this streamlined process, the UK aims to expedite the entry of globally recognized talents, ensuring they can contribute to the country’s innovation and cultural enrichment promptly.

Visa Duration and Extensions:

• • Initial Visa: Granted for up to 5 years.

• • Extensions: Can be extended for further periods, with no limit on the total length of stay. Extensions require meeting specific eligibility criteria.

Path to Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain):

You can apply for settlement after:

• • 3 years if endorsed under “exceptional talent.”

• • 5 years if endorsed under “exceptional promise.”

Settlement requirements include:

• • Continuous residence in the UK.

• • Maintaining work in your endorsed field.

• • No excessive absences from the UK.

• • Passing the Life in the UK test.

• • Meeting English language requirements.

Financial Requirements:

Application Costs

The primary fee for applying for the Global Talent Visa is £716. However, this fee is structured differently depending on whether the application is based on an endorsement or an eligible award:

Based on an Endorsement:

£524 is paid when applying for the endorsement.

£192 is due when applying for the visa itself.

Total: £716

Based on an Eligible Award:

The full fee of £716 is paid at the time of the visa application.

Additional Charges

When considering the financial implications of applying for the Global Talent Visa, applicants should also factor in the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This surcharge grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) and is usually calculated at £1,035 per year for each person applying. This means that for a multi-year visa, the total cost can significantly increase when combined with the initial visa fee.

Family Member Applications

If applicants wish to include family members, such as partners and children, each will incur the same visa fee of £716. It is essential for applicants to budget for these additional fees if they intend on bringing family members with them to the UK.

Payment Schedule

The fees must be paid online during the application process, and be mindful that applicants experience different timelines for receiving a decision based on their location:

Outside the UK: Typically, decisions are made within 3 weeks.

Inside the UK: Decisions generally take 8 weeks.²

Bringing Family Members (Dependents):

Eligible dependents include:

• • Spouse or partner.

• • Children under 18.

• • Children over 18 if they are currently in the UK as dependents.

Dependent requirements:

• • Proof of relationship.

• • Evidence of financial support.

• • Payment of the Immigration Health Surcharge.

• • Biometric information.

Tips for a Successful Application:

• • Strong Evidence Collection: Start gathering evidence early. Maintain a professional portfolio and keep detailed records of your achievements, recognition, and awards. Organize your documents chronologically and clearly.

• • Thorough Application Preparation: Carefully follow the guidelines provided by the relevant endorsing body. Use clear and professional formatting in your application materials. Provide certified English translations for any documents not in English. Include a comprehensive and up-to-date CV.

• • Professional Support: Consider seeking advice from immigration lawyers or consultants specializing in Global Talent Visa applications. They can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the process.

Common Challenges and Solutions:

• • Evidence Gathering: Start early, maintain a professional portfolio, and document everything.

• • Meeting Criteria: Thoroughly review the requirements and focus on your most relevant achievements. Highlight innovation, impact, and future potential.

• • Application Timing: Plan for processing times and consider peak periods. Allow ample time for document preparation and endorsement processing.

Why Choose the Global Talent Visa?

• • Career Flexibility: Freedom to change employers, work on multiple projects, and be self-employed.

• • Long-Term Benefits: A clear path to settlement (permanent residency), family inclusion, and access to the National Health Service (NHS).

• • Professional Growth: Access to the UK’s thriving innovation ecosystem, networking opportunities, research collaborations, and industry recognition.

Need Help with Your Application?

At Fasedu Consult, we specialize in helping talented professionals navigate the complexities of the Global Talent Visa application. Our experienced consultants can:

• • Assess your eligibility.

• • Guide you through the endorsement process.

• • Review your evidence and documentation.

• • Provide comprehensive application support.

• • Assist with dependent visa applications.

Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your Global Talent Visa application. Our expertise can maximize your chances of success and make your transition to the UK smoother and more efficient.

Disclaimer: Visa requirements and processes are subject to change. Always verify the most current and accurate information with official UK government sources or consult with Fasedu Consult for up-to-date guidance. Immigration rules can be complex, and professional advice is highly recommended.