Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility) in the UK: Rules and Costs for 2026

Last reviewed: 25 October 2026. Fees and thresholds were checked against a legal summary dated 14 October 2026 (fees as at 6 October 2026).

The Senior or Specialist Worker visa is part of the Global Business Mobility routes. It lets an overseas business move an existing employee to a UK branch. It is not a general job-search visa.

Quick answer

• You must already work for the same group outside the UK, normally for a cumulative 12 months, unless you are a high earner on £73,900 or more.
• Minimum pay is the higher of £52,500 a year or 100% of the going rate.
• The job must be graduate level (RQF 6) and in an eligible occupation.
• The route does not lead directly to settlement, but time may count towards 10-year long residence.

Who can use it

• You are aged 18 or over.
• You hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from an authorised sponsor.
• You currently work for the sponsor’s overseas group.
• You meet the 60 points: 20 for sponsorship, 20 for skill level, and 20 for salary.

Costs in 2026

How long can you stay?

A grant normally ends five years after the job start date, or 14 days after the job ends, whichever is earlier. Most people can spend up to five years in any six-year period on the relevant routes. High earners can spend up to nine years in any ten-year period.

Family

A partner and dependent children can join you. Dependants can generally work and study but usually cannot claim public funds. The maintenance amounts are £285 for a partner, £315 for the first child and £200 for each additional child, where the financial requirement applies.

Switching in the UK

Many people already in the UK can switch in, but not from some categories such as visitor, short-term student, seasonal worker or domestic worker in a private household.

If you want to settle in the UK

Because this route does not lead straight to indefinite leave to remain, people who want to settle often consider moving to the Skilled Worker route later. Ask a regulated adviser before switching.

Sources and references

• Personal Immigration: UK Senior or Specialist Worker visa (14 October 2026)
• GOV.UK: Senior or Specialist Worker visa

Red flags and scams

• Anyone asking you to pay for a job offer, a Certificate of Sponsorship or a “guaranteed visa”.
• Job adverts with very high pay for beginners, or no interview.
• Contact only through WhatsApp, Telegram or a free email address with no company website or address.
• A sponsor that is not on the official register. Check the Home Office register of licensed sponsors before you share documents or pay anything.

If you think you have been targeted, stop paying, keep all messages and receipts, and report it to your local police. You can also email us at info@careerjobss.com.

This guide is general information, not legal or immigration advice. UK rules, fees and salary thresholds change often. Always confirm the current position on GOV.UK or with a regulated immigration adviser before making decisions. Corrections are welcome at info@careerjobss.com.