Key Takeaways
- The former Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) visa has been replaced by the Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker route.
- It enables multinational companies to transfer senior managers or specialist employees to their UK branch.
- There is no direct route to settlement (ILR) under this category — workers must switch to a qualifying visa if they intend to settle.
- Minimum salary thresholds and sponsor compliance rules were updated in 2025, and the route requires a valid Sponsor Licence.
- Barar & Associates are SRA-regulated UK immigration solicitors, assisting both employers and employees with end-to-end guidance.
What Is the Senior or Specialist Worker Route?
This route allows overseas companies to transfer skilled employees to their UK branch, subsidiary, or linked entity. It forms part of the Global Business Mobility (GBM) framework, which consolidates previous intra-company and temporary business routes.
To qualify:
- The applicant must be employed by an overseas branch of a multinational company linked to the UK sponsor.
- The UK sponsor must hold a valid Worker Sponsor Licence.
- The employee must have worked for the overseas entity for at least 12 months, unless they meet the high-earner threshold.
- The job must be genuine and skilled, at an appropriate occupation code and salary level.
Unlike the Skilled Worker route, this category is primarily for temporary assignments and does not directly lead to ILR.
Eligibility Requirements (2025)
| Requirement | Standard | Notes |
| Employment history | Minimum 12 months with the overseas branch | Waived if earning £73,900+ |
| Salary threshold | £52,500 per year or the “going rate” for the role (whichever is higher) | Based on 2025 Home Office updates |
| Skill level | RQF Level 6 or above | Equivalent to graduate-level roles |
| Certificate of Sponsorship | Required | Issued by UK sponsor with correct SOC code and start date |
| English language | Not required | This route does not test language skills |
| Maximum stay | 5 years in any 6-year period (if earning under £73,900); 9 years in any 10 years (if earning above £73,900) | Includes any previous ICT/GBM time |
| Dependants | Permitted | Partner and children can apply as dependants |
Fees and Charges (Official 2025 Rates)
| Fee Type | Amount | Applies To |
| Sponsor Licence (4 years) | £574 – small or charitable sponsor / £1,579 – medium or large business | Paid by employer on application or renewal |
| Priority Licence Service (optional) | £750 | 10-working-day decision (when available) |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) | £525 per Worker CoS / £55 per Temporary Worker CoS | Paid by employer each time a CoS is assigned |
| Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) | £364 per year (small/charity) / £1,000 per year (medium/large) | Paid up front for each year of CoS validity |
| ⚠ Note (Upcoming Change) | From 16 December 2025, the ISC will increase to £480 / £1,320 per year | Announced by Home Office Autumn 2025 |
How to Apply
- Employer obtains or holds a valid Sponsor Licence under the Worker category.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued for the eligible role.
- Employee applies online, attaching supporting documents:
- CoS reference number;
- current passport and employment evidence;
- proof of salary and role description;
- TB test certificate (if applicable).
- Application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge are paid at submission.
- Processing time: around 3 weeks outside the UK or 8 weeks in-country (unless priority service used).
Common Employer Responsibilities
Holders of a Sponsor Licence must:
- Maintain accurate HR records for all sponsored workers.
- Report changes in employment via the Sponsorship Management System (SMS).
- Ensure ongoing compliance with salary, role and location requirements.
- Co-operate with Home Office audits and requests for information.
Failure to comply can lead to downgraded, suspended or revoked licences — preventing future sponsorship.
Switching & Settlement
The Senior or Specialist Worker visa does not directly lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain.
However, a holder may switch to a Skilled Worker Visa or other qualifying route if they meet the criteria.
Time spent under this route can count toward ILR only after switching to a settlement-eligible visa.
Why Choose Barar & Associates
- 25 years of specialist UK immigration experience.
- In-depth knowledge of corporate sponsorship and compliance.
- Fixed-fee consultations and transparent cost structure.
- Representation for both employers and transferred employees.
- Tailored strategies to mitigate Home Office risk and avoid delays.
FAQs
How long does a Sponsor Licence last?
Four years, renewable before expiry.
Is an English language test required?
No — this route does not require proof of English.
Can dependants work in the UK?
Yes, dependants are usually permitted to work and study (subject to restrictions).
What if my Sponsor Licence application is refused?
There is no refund or appeal route; you must re-apply after addressing the issues and paying a new fee.
Our solicitors can assist with pre-audit checks and evidence bundling to reduce risk.
Next Steps
Whether you are a UK employer planning to bring staff from overseas or an employee being transferred to the UK, our team can help you navigate this process efficiently.
Call 020 7487 8370 or ✉ info@bararassociates.com to book an obligation-free consultation.
