United Kingdom Immigration Services

​​​The immigration system of the United Kingdom provides various solutions to help employers of foreign nationals. Requirements, processing times, employment eligibility, and benefits for accompanying family members vary by visa classification. Key elements are a points-based system to determine fulfilment of visa conditions and employer sponsorship via sponsorship licences.

Business visitors to the United Kingdom require a Business Visitor Visa prior to entry, unless they are visa exempt based on their nationality. While business visits are legally possible for up to six cumulative months in a 12-month period, any trip over six consecutive weeks or with frequent visits per month requires review by an immigration professional. All business visitors must respect the allowable activities under business visitor status and are advised to carry a support letter confirming the nature and duration of their stay.​

The main work authorization categories are the Tier 2 ICT – Long-​Term Staff category, available for transfers; and the Tier 2 (General) category, suitable for skilled foreign national employees where the position cannot be filled locally. Other work authorization options include the Tier 1 (Investor) and Tier 5 (Temporary Workers). Dependents may accompany the foreign national under these categories.

Note that since immigration rules have changed significantly over the past five years, the foreign national’s immigration history in the United Kingdom may impact application options for certain immigration categories.

Detailed Immigration Snapshots, Document Lists and Process Guides are available to clients on request.