Welcome to our Westly Global Services
Burjuman exit 3 Adidas building 4th floor office no 15
UK Expansion Worker Visa
Send your senior employees to the UK to establish your company’s new branch or subsidiary.
Apply NowOverview
The UK Expansion Worker Visa is designed for employees of overseas companies that are setting up a branch or subsidiary in the United Kingdom. It is part of the Global Business Mobility route and allows senior staff or specialists to relocate temporarily while the UK business is being established.
Who Can Apply?
- Senior managers or specialists employed by an overseas business
- Employees with at least 12 months overseas service (unless earning £73,900+)
- 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
Validity & Extensions
The Expansion Worker Visa is granted for 12 months initially and can be extended to a maximum of 2 years. The route does not directly lead to permanent residency, but once your UK branch is trading, you may switch to other visa categories.
Comparison: Expansion Worker vs Skilled Worker
| 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
Can this visa lead to permanent residency?
No, but switching to other routes later is possible.
Do I need to prove English ability?
No, English is not required for this route.
Can my family join me?
Yes, dependents can apply with you.
Expand Your Business into the UK
We help overseas companies secure sponsor licences and Expansion Worker Visas to establish their UK presence successfully.
📞 +971 54 322 2287
📧 info@westlyglobalservices.com
📍 Burjuman Exit 3, Adidas Building, 4th Floor, Office 15, Dubai
