The UK recently increased visa fees, including a big jump in the health surcharge to £1,035 for adults. Starting October 4, 2023, applying for work, visitor, family, settlement, and e-citizenship visas costs more, with a 35% increase in student visa fees.
But, good news for those without a job offer! There are still options. The India Young Professionals Scheme is for Indians aged 18 to 30, offering a 2-year chance to work and live in the UK. To apply, be selected in the scheme’s ballot, meet age requirements, have an eligible qualification, and £2,530 in savings.
The Global Talent visa is for leaders in academia, research, arts, culture, and tech. You need an endorsement showing your leadership or a qualifying award. The High Potential Individual (HPI) visa allows a minimum two-year stay for those awarded a qualification by an eligible university in the last 5 years.
Despite criticism, the HPI visa can be an option for high-performing Indian professionals who studied abroad. For Indians linked to businesses with UK branches, the Global Mobility route offers options like the Senior or Specialist Worker visa, Graduate Trainee visa, and UK Expansion Worker visa.
An often overlooked but flexible choice is the self-sponsorship route. Start a UK-limited company, then get a Skilled Worker visa – great for those wanting to start their own business in the UK.
In short, even with changes in UK immigration, there are still paths for those with unique skills or an entrepreneurial spirit. Consider talking to a UK-based immigration law firm for help.
UK Job Seeker Visa, Simplified UK Visa, Visa Update UK, Job Seeker Immigration, UK Work Visa News