Scale-up Visa

The Scale-up Visa is a UK work visa for professionals hired by a qualifying high-growth employer — one averaging 20%+ annual growth over 3 years with at least 10 employees. Applicants need a Certificate of Sponsorship, a salary of at least £39,100/year, English at B2 (CEFR), and £1,270 in savings if not waived.

Initial permission is 2 years, extendable in 3-year increments with no total cap. After 6 months, holders can change employer, take extra work, or go self-employed without further sponsorship. Dependants may join and work freely. ILR is available after 5 years of continuous residence.

This visa is ideal for skilled workers with a job offer at a fast-growing UK firm who want labor market flexibility sooner than the standard Skilled Worker route allows.