The UK government has taken a significant step forward in its ambition to become a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI). The publication of the AI Opportunities Action Plan set out 50 recommendations aimed at harnessing the transformative power of AI. Among these, the spotlight is firmly on how immigration policy can support the UK’s AI leadership.

A standout recommendation in the Action Plan is the call for the UK to revisit its immigration strategy to attract graduates from institutions known for producing exceptional AI talent. Notably, many of the world’s leading AI institutions in the United States are currently absent from the UK’s Global Universities List for High Potential Individual Visa.

To address this, the report recommends:

• Expanding the Global Universities List to include renowned AI-focused institutions.
• Developing new immigration pathways to attract AI talent.
• Simplifying visa processes and reducing associated costs to encourage start-ups and global talent to choose the UK.

Top work visa routes for AI professionals

For those interested in pursuing a career in the UK’s flourishing AI sector, there are several visa options available:

1. Skilled Worker visa
   • For individuals with a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK sponsor.
   • Commonly used by foreign nationals seeking employment in the UK.
2. Innovator Founder visa
   • An unsponsored route for individuals planning to establish and run an innovative business in the UK.
   • The business must be unique and assessed by an approved endorsing body.
3. Global Talent visa
   • For leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts and culture or digital technology.
   • Allows freedom to live and work in the UK without employer sponsorship.
4. Government Authorised Exchange visa
   • A temporary visa for individuals participating in work experience, training, research or exchange programmes.

Opportunities for employers

The government’s endorsement of the Action Plan signals a positive shift towards simplifying immigration processes, particularly for AI talent. If the recommendations are fully implemented, UK employers could soon find it easier to recruit from a global pool of highly skilled AI professionals, supporting growth and innovation across industries.

Conclusion

As the UK positions itself as a world leader in AI, ensuring access to global talent is essential. With proposed updates to immigration policies, the UK is taking meaningful steps to attract the brightest minds, solidifying its reputation as a hub for technological advancement.

If you’re an employer looking to recruit AI talent or a professional seeking to explore opportunities in the UK, now is the time to stay informed and prepared for the changes ahead. If you need any assistance navigating the intricacies of immigration law, please contact us.

The AI future is here, and the UK is ready to lead.

Updated: 22 January 2025

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, 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.

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