01
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must generally demonstrate that they are either:
Exceptional Talent
An exceptional talent with established recognition as a leader.
Exceptional Promise
An exceptional promise applicant with the potential to become a leader.
The evidence and eligibility requirements differ according to the applicant’s professional field and endorsement pathway.
Endorsement or Prestigious Prize
Endorsement Route
Most applicants must first obtain endorsement from an approved body with expertise in their field.
✓ The Royal Society
✓ The Royal Academy of Engineering
✓ The British Academy
✓ UK Research and Innovation
✓ Arts Council England and associated specialist bodies
✓ Tech Nation for digital technology
Prestigious Prize Route
Applicants who are named winners of an eligible prestigious prize may apply directly for the visa without completing the endorsement stage. Only prizes included on the official Home Office list qualify.
02
Processing Time
After submitting the visa application, identity evidence and documents, applicants usually receive a decision within:
Outside the UK
Three weeks
Inside the UK
Eight weeks
Endorsement assessments may take approximately five to eight weeks, depending on the applicant’s field and route. Faster visa services may be available in certain locations for an additional charge.
03
Bringing Your Family
An eligible spouse, civil partner, unmarried partner and dependent children may apply to accompany or join the Global Talent Visa holder.
Eligible dependants can generally work, study and travel during their stay. A dependant partner may become eligible for permanent settlement after five qualifying years, subject to the applicable requirements.
Pathway to Permanent Settlement
Global Talent Visa holders may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain after either three or five years, depending on:
✓ Their professional field
✓ Whether they were endorsed as talent or promise
✓ Their endorsement or prestigious-prize route
✓ Continued compliance with the visa requirements
Settlement eligibility is assessed separately and is not automatic.
