Your Complete Guide to the Secondment Worker Visa
The Secondment Worker Visa offers businesses a unique opportunity to bring international workers to the UK as part of high-value contracts or investments between overseas companies and UK organizations. This visa, part of the Global Business Mobility framework, allows individuals to work temporarily in the UK, strengthening business ties and fostering international collaboration. Whether you’re an employer facilitating a secondment or an individual looking to enhance your career through global exposure, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Secondment Worker Visa, including eligibility, benefits, and the application process.
What is the Secondment Worker Visa?
The Secondment Worker Visa enables overseas workers to be seconded to a UK-based business under an existing high-value contract or investment. It’s a temporary work visa designed to facilitate knowledge transfer and international business growth.
Who Can Apply for the Secondment Worker Visa?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Employment by an Overseas Business
You must be employed by a business outside the UK that is involved in a high-value contract or investment with a UK-based organization. - Role Relevance
Your role must be directly related to the contract or investment and require specific expertise or responsibilities. - Sponsor Licence Requirement
The UK organization must hold a valid sponsor licence under the Secondment Worker route. - Minimum Employment Period
You must have been employed by the overseas business for at least 12 months before applying. - No English Language Requirement
Unlike many other visa categories, this route does not require proof of English proficiency.
Key Benefits of the Secondment Worker Visa
- Strengthens Business Collaboration
Facilitates seamless knowledge transfer and project execution between international and UK-based businesses. - Dependents Allowed
Visa holders can bring their spouse or partner and children under 18, ensuring family relocation is stress-free. - No Labour Market Test
Employers are not required to demonstrate that the role cannot be filled by a UK worker. - Work Flexibility
The visa allows seconded workers to focus on the specific contract or investment, contributing directly to business success.
Eligibility Criteria for the Secondment Worker Visa
To qualify for this visa, both the employee and the employer must meet the following requirements:
1. Employee Requirements
- Employed by the overseas business for at least 12 months.
- Involved in a role directly linked to the contract or investment in the UK.
2. Employer Requirements
- Hold a valid sponsor licence under the Secondment Worker route.
- Provide evidence of the high-value contract or investment with the overseas business.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for the Secondment Worker Visa
Step 1: Employer Secures a Sponsor Licence
The UK-based business must obtain a sponsor licence under the Secondment Worker route, demonstrating compliance with UKVI regulations.
Step 2: Assign a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once the sponsor licence is approved, the UK organization issues a CoS to the applicant, detailing the role and its connection to the contract or investment.
Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents
Prepare the following:
- Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Evidence of employment and role relevance to the contract or investment.
- Proof of sufficient funds (£1,270 unless exempt).
- TB test results if applicable.
Step 4: Submit the Application Online
Complete the visa application form, ensuring all details align with your supporting documents.
Step 5: Pay the Fees
- Application fee: £259.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £624 per year.
Step 6: Attend a Biometrics Appointment
Provide fingerprints and a photograph at a visa application center or via the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
Step 7: Await Decision
Decisions are typically made within three weeks, though processing times can vary based on application complexity.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
1. Establishing Contract or Investment Validity
The UK organization must provide robust evidence of the high-value contract or investment to satisfy UKVI requirements.
2. Proving Role Alignment
Applicants must demonstrate that their role directly contributes to the contract or investment. Detailed job descriptions and project documents can help.
3. Documentation Accuracy
Incomplete or inconsistent documents can delay decisions. Professional guidance ensures all requirements are met.
Why Choose immigrationpoint for Your Secondment Worker Visa Application?
We are trusted by professionals and businesses alike for our:
- Expertise in Global Mobility: Our in-depth knowledge of international secondments ensures a seamless process.
- Comprehensive Support: From sponsor licence applications to visa submissions, we handle every detail.
- Proven Track Record: Our meticulous approach ensures a high approval rate for our clients.
Real-Life Success Stories: Facilitating Global Success
Case 1: Engineering Project Collaboration
An engineering firm in Germany needed to second specialists to a UK partner for a large-scale infrastructure project. We assisted in aligning the project documentation with UKVI requirements, ensuring smooth visa approvals for all secondees.
Case 2: IT Expertise for a UK Tech Firm
A US-based IT company faced challenges proving the relevance of its contract with a UK client. Our team helped draft a detailed project overview, securing Secondment Worker Visas for their specialists.
Case 3: Supply Chain Specialists on Tight Deadlines
A logistics company from India had a contract with a UK distributor requiring immediate secondments. We expedited the sponsor licence process and streamlined visa submissions, enabling the specialists to begin work without delays.
Benefits of the Secondment Worker Visa
This visa provides numerous advantages for businesses and secondees:
- Knowledge Transfer: Enables international businesses to share expertise and strengthen global collaborations.
- Family Inclusion: Dependents can join the secondee, making the transition to the UK easier.
- Focused Contributions: Allows secondees to work on specific contracts without additional employment obligations.
- No English Language Requirement: Simplifies the application process for non-English-speaking applicants.
The Secondment Worker Visa is your pathway to fostering global business partnerships and enabling seamless knowledge transfer. Don’t let the complexities hold you back—contact immigrationpoint today for expert guidance tailored to your needs. Let us handle the details while you focus on achieving your goals. Schedule your consultation now and take the first step toward success.