Executive Summary
The UK government will accelerate the path to settlement for the best international scientific and research talent in order to promote growth in innovative technology, research and development.
The situation
In the UK's 2017 Autumn budget, the UK government has set out plans to encourage the best international scientific and research talent to work in the United Kingdom in order to promote growth in innovative technology, research and development.
A closer look
The government will:
- Change immigration rules to enable world-leading scientists and researchers, as well as those in the technology and arts sectors, who are endorsed under the Tier 1, Exceptional Talent, route to apply for settlement after three years, rather than five at present;
- Allow highly-skilled students to apply more quickly for work in the United Kingdom after finishing their degrees; and
- Reduce bureaucratic impediments to hiring international researchers and members of established research teams through the relaxation of the labor market test and by allowing the UK’s research councils and other select organizations to sponsor researchers.
Looking ahead
Foreign nationals and employers should be aware that new opportunities for potential employment and sponsorship will arise from these changes in UK law.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
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Awards
Partner Julia Onslow-Cole is recognised in the Spears 500 guide to leading private client advisers, reflecting her experience advising high-net-worth individuals, families and global businesses on complex UK and European immigration and mobility strategies.
Media mentions
Partner Abeer Al Husseini discusses increased scrutiny of Saudi business visas in AGBI, highlighting stricter review of short-term entry used for operational work and the implications for regional employers.
Awards
Australia and New Zealand Managing Partner Teresa Liu, Partner Charles Johanes, Practice Leaders Hedvika and Leader Ben Lear and Senior Associate Hannah Scanlan are recognized in the 2026 edition of Doyle’s Guide as leading immigration practitioners in Australia.
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Partner Rick Lamanna provides insight to Buffalo Toronto Public Media on potential IRCC processing challenges as Canada prepares for increased visa demand ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Blog post
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