UK attracts more talent as demand for tech visas grows.
The Global Talent visa was introduced in large part to alter and replace the old Exceptional Talent visa and is designed to attract growing and recognised international talent to the UK.
Applicants must be either a recognised leader or emerging talent in their field, as vouched for by sector-specific UK organisations, such as TechNation (for applicants in the tech space) and Arts Council England (for applicants in the arts and humanities). Such organisations are known as Endorsing Bodies, and are approved by the Home Office to endorse would-be applicants as recognised in their field.
One must first apply for and obtain endorsement from one of these bodies before being able to proceed to apply to the Home Office for their Global Talent visa.
This visa route was launched in 2020, and, despite an understandable waiver during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, is currently growing incredibly quickly in comparison to pre-pandemic approval levels, and approval levels under the Exceptional Talent route.
As of the end of Quarter 3 2021, a record-setting 700 Global Talent visas had been issued by the Home Office, roughly double the pre-pandemic approval levels.
It is heartening to see this route growing strongly so quickly after its launch in 2020, and in spite of the dampening effect of the pandemic.
Gherson has significant experience with all aspects of the Global Talent visa and is well situated to advise and assist in relation to this UK visa route. Please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or alternatively, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
©Gherson 2021