UK BUSINESS EXPANSION VISA GBM
Send your senior employees to the UK to establish your company’s new branch or subsidiary.
Overview
A UK Business expansion visa allows you to come to the UK to set up a branch of an overseas business that has not started trading in the UK yet. You must already work for the overseas business as either a Director, senior manager, or specialist employee. This program is designed specifically to attract overseas non-EU companies to establish a new presence in the United Kingdom. The main applicant will receive full UK residency for themselves and their dependents, with access to free education, free healthcare, and a pathway to citizenship.
Who Can Apply?
- Business owners,
- Entrepreneurs
- Shareholder or Senior Employees.
- Those responsible for establishing and managing the UK branch
- Applicants with a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed sponsor
Eligibility Criteria
- Valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Proof of overseas employment and business trading
- Salary of at least £48,500 per year (or going rate for role)
- No English language requirement
Application Process
- Business assessment & sponsor licence support
- Certificate of Sponsorship issued by employer
- Visa application with supporting documents
- Biometric appointment at visa centre
- Visa approval & relocation to the UK
Required Documents
Applicant Documents
- Passport
- CoS reference
- Proof of employment overseas
- TB test (if required)
Business Documents
- Business plan for UK expansion
- Overseas trading evidence
- Corporate structure details
Expansion Worker Visa — Validity & Extensions
The Expansion Worker Visa is granted for 12 months initially and can be extended to a maximum of 2 years. This route does not directly lead to permanent residency, but once your UK branch is trading you may be eligible to switch to other visa categories.
Comparison: Expansion Worker vs Skilled Worker
Quick glance| Feature | Expansion Worker | Skilled Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Set up UK branch | Work for existing UK employer |
| Duration | Max 2 years | Up to 5 years |
| ILR Path | No | Yes, after 5 years |
| English Test | Not required | Required |
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but switching to other routes later is possible.
No, English is not required for this route.
Yes, dependents can apply with you.