Scale-up Visa UK Guide

The UK Scale-up visa is designed to attract highly skilled individuals to work for businesses that are experiencing rapid growth. It is part of the government’s strategy to support innovative, high-growth companies by making it easier for them to access international talent when domestic recruitment cannot meet demand. For employers, the route offers a valuable opportunity to bring in skilled workers quickly and with greater flexibility compared to other sponsored visa categories.

What this article is about: This guide explains the Scale-up visa in detail from both the employer’s and the applicant’s perspective. It outlines the key eligibility criteria for workers, the requirements businesses must meet to qualify as scale-up sponsors, and the process of applying for the visa. It also examines the compliance duties for employers, the role of sponsorship in the early stages, and the long-term immigration options available for Scale-up visa holders, including Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

For HR directors, business owners, and senior managers, the Scale-up visa represents both an opportunity and a compliance responsibility. The initial period of sponsorship involves the same regulatory framework as other UK work visas, but with the added advantage that after six months, visa holders can move into unsponsored employment, giving businesses greater flexibility in their workforce planning.

This article will guide you through the practical and legal considerations, including how scale-up businesses are defined, what the sponsorship process involves, and how to manage right to work checks for Scale-up visa holders. It will also provide an overview of how this visa fits into the UK’s wider immigration landscape, particularly in comparison to routes such as the Skilled Worker and Global Talent visas.

 

Section A: Understanding the Scale-up Visa

 

The Scale-up visa is a dedicated immigration route for high-growth UK companies that need to recruit international talent quickly and flexibly. It was introduced to help dynamic businesses in sectors such as technology, life sciences, finance, and advanced manufacturing, where specialist skills are in high demand and hard to source locally.

 

1. What is the Scale-up visa?

 

The Scale-up visa allows skilled workers to come to the UK to work in eligible roles for approved scale-up businesses. Unlike other work visas, it blends an initial sponsorship requirement with a pathway to unsponsored work. In the first six months, the visa holder must work for their sponsoring employer in the role described on their Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). After this period, they are free to move between employers or roles without requiring further sponsorship, provided they continue to meet minimum earnings and immigration conditions.

 

2. Purpose of the route – attracting high-growth talent

 

The UK government developed the Scale-up route to support companies that are growing at pace. Qualifying scale-up businesses are those able to demonstrate consistent growth in turnover or staffing levels over a set period. The policy intention is to reduce the hiring friction that fast-growing companies often face when they outgrow the domestic labour market. For employers, this means easier access to international talent; for skilled workers, it means a visa that offers greater flexibility and career mobility than traditional sponsored routes.

 

3. How it compares to other work visas (Skilled Worker, Global Talent)

 

The Scale-up visa differs from the Skilled Worker visa in that sponsorship is limited to the first six months, reducing the long-term administrative burden on employers. By contrast, the Skilled Worker route requires sponsorship throughout the visa’s duration. It also differs from the Global Talent visa, which requires endorsement from a recognised industry body and is designed for individuals with an established record of excellence. The Scale-up visa sits between these routes, offering both accessibility and freedom of movement after the initial sponsorship phase.

 

4. Benefits for employers and applicants

 

For employers, the Scale-up visa means access to a wider talent pool, faster recruitment, and reduced compliance responsibilities once the initial sponsorship period is complete. It also allows businesses to strengthen their workforce planning without committing to long-term sponsorship duties. For workers, the visa provides a faster route to unsponsored work, the ability to change employers more easily, and a pathway to settlement after five years.

Section Summary
The Scale-up visa provides a hybrid approach to skilled migration, combining short-term sponsorship with long-term flexibility. It was created to help fast-growing UK companies access the specialist skills they need while giving workers greater freedom in the UK labour market. Compared with other visa categories, it is less restrictive for both parties, making it a practical option for employers seeking agility and workers seeking career mobility.

 

Section B: Eligibility and Requirements

 

The Scale-up visa has distinct eligibility rules for both employers and applicants. Employers must first meet the definition of a “scale-up business” before they can sponsor workers, while applicants must satisfy role, salary, language, and financial criteria. Understanding these requirements is essential for HR directors and business leaders considering recruitment under this route.

 

1. Scale-up business criteria – definition of a qualifying scale-up company

 

To sponsor a Scale-up visa applicant, the employer must hold a Scale-up sponsor licence. This is only granted to businesses that meet strict growth criteria set by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Specifically, a company must be able to show:

• An annual average growth rate of at least 20% over a three-year period, either in turnover or staffing numbers.
• A minimum of 10 employees at the start of that three-year period.

 

This definition ensures that only genuinely high-growth businesses can use the route. Companies that qualify can apply for a Scale-up sponsor licence, allowing them to issue Certificates of Sponsorship to eligible workers.

 

2. Sponsorship requirement for the initial stage

 

For the first six months of employment in the UK, a Scale-up visa holder must be sponsored by their qualifying employer. Sponsorship involves assigning a valid Certificate of Sponsorship confirming the role, salary, and employer. During this period, the employee must remain in the sponsored role. After six months, the sponsorship requirement falls away, and the individual can change jobs or employers without needing new sponsorship, provided they continue to meet the visa’s conditions.

 

3. Job role, salary, and skill level thresholds

 

Applicants must be offered a genuine job at an appropriate skill level. The minimum salary requirement for Scale-up visa roles is set by the Immigration Rules. As of July 2025, the thresholds are:

• General threshold: £41,700 per year
• Discounted threshold: £33,400 per year (for roles on the shortage occupation list or those qualifying for tradeable points)
• Transitional threshold: £31,300 per year (for workers who had permission before 4 April 2024 and are extending or switching)
• Health and Care roles: £25,000 per year

 

The role must be eligible under the list of qualifying occupations published by UKVI, and the salary must meet the correct level for that occupation.

 

4. English language and financial requirements

 

Applicants must demonstrate English language ability to at least level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), proven by:

• Nationality from a majority English-speaking country,
• Academic qualification taught in English and recognised by Ecctis, or
• Passing an approved English language test.

 

Financially, applicants must show they can support themselves on arrival, unless their sponsor certifies maintenance. The usual requirement is proof of at least £1,270 in savings held for 28 days before application.

Section Summary
The Scale-up visa is only open to businesses that can demonstrate sustained high growth and secure a sponsor licence. Applicants must meet role and salary thresholds, as well as English language and financial requirements. Sponsorship applies only for the first six months, after which visa holders gain more freedom in the labour market. Employers should carefully assess their eligibility before applying for a licence, while applicants must ensure their role and salary meet the Immigration Rules.

 

Section C: Application Process

 

Applying for the Scale-up visa involves coordinated steps between the sponsoring employer and the worker. While the route has reduced compliance obligations in the longer term, the initial application stage follows a structured process that employers must manage carefully to remain compliant.

 

1. Applying as a worker – steps, documents, costs

 

Applicants must apply for the Scale-up visa online through the UK Home Office system. The main steps include:

• Receiving a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed scale-up employer.
• Completing the online application form and paying the relevant fee.
• Paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for access to the NHS.
• Uploading required supporting documents, including proof of identity, proof of English language ability, and evidence of financial maintenance (unless certified by the sponsor).
• Providing biometric information through a UKVCAS centre or using the UK Immigration: ID Check app if eligible.

 

The application fee for a Scale-up visa is generally lower than for other sponsored routes, making it more cost-effective for both workers and employers.

 

2. Employer’s role – sponsor licence and issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship

 

The employer must hold a valid Scale-up sponsor licence before they can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship. This licence is granted to businesses that meet the high-growth criteria outlined in Section B. The CoS confirms details of the applicant’s role, salary, and employer, and is required for the visa application. Once the CoS has been assigned and the employee has successfully applied for the visa, the employer must carry out the necessary right to work checks before employment commences.

 

3. Visa duration, switching routes, and extensions

 

The Scale-up visa is initially granted for two years. After this period, the visa can be extended for a further three years if the applicant continues to meet the minimum salary threshold. Alternatively, applicants may be able to switch into another immigration route, such as the Skilled Worker visa, Global Talent visa, or Innovator Founder visa, depending on their career trajectory and personal circumstances.

The unique feature of this visa is that after the first six months, holders are no longer tied to their sponsoring employer and can change roles freely. However, when applying to extend the visa, they must demonstrate that they have earned the required salary through PAYE for at least half of their permission time in the UK.

 

4. Right to work checks and compliance obligations for employers

 

Even though sponsorship duties end after six months, employers must still meet their right to work check obligations throughout the employment relationship. This includes carrying out prescribed checks before employment starts and repeat checks where applicable, particularly if the worker’s immigration status has an expiry date. Failure to conduct compliant checks can expose the business to civil penalties and reputational risk.

During the initial sponsorship stage, employers must comply with standard sponsor duties, including reporting changes of circumstances to UKVI. These obligations ease significantly after the initial six-month period, but right to work compliance remains a continuing responsibility.

Section Summary
The Scale-up visa application process requires close coordination between employer and worker. Employers must hold a Scale-up sponsor licence and issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, while applicants must complete the online application, provide supporting evidence, and pay the relevant fees. Although the sponsorship requirement only applies for the first six months, employers remain responsible for right to work compliance throughout the worker’s employment. The visa offers flexibility, with initial permission granted for two years, and the option to extend, switch routes, or progress towards settlement.

 

Section D: Settlement and Long-term Options

 

The Scale-up visa is designed not only to support fast-growing UK businesses but also to provide long-term stability for workers who wish to build their careers in the UK. Unlike temporary routes, it offers a direct pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after a qualifying period, provided all requirements are met. Employers should be aware of these settlement rules, as they influence workforce planning and employee retention strategies.

 

1. Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

 

A Scale-up visa holder can apply for ILR after five years of continuous lawful residence in the UK. Unlike some other work routes, the five-year period does not need to be spent entirely on the Scale-up visa. Time on other eligible routes, such as Skilled Worker, Global Talent, or Innovator Founder, can also count towards the qualifying period.

When applying for ILR, the individual must show that they have earned at least the minimum salary threshold through PAYE for at least 50% of their time on the Scale-up route. The five-year qualifying period must also include at least two years on the Scale-up visa itself. They must also meet the English language requirement at B1 level and pass the Life in the UK Test.

 

2. Continuous residence and qualifying period

 

To qualify for ILR, the applicant must demonstrate continuous residence in the UK. This means they cannot have spent more than 180 days outside the UK in any rolling 12-month period during the qualifying five years. Employers should make staff aware of these restrictions, particularly if international travel is a regular part of their role.

 

3. Switching to other immigration routes

 

The Scale-up visa is flexible in allowing holders to switch into other immigration categories if their circumstances change. For example, a worker may move into the Skilled Worker route if they wish to continue with a sponsoring employer long-term, or they may pursue the Global Talent visa if they achieve recognition in their field. This flexibility makes the Scale-up route particularly attractive to ambitious individuals looking for career progression in the UK.

 

4. Dependants and family members

 

Scale-up visa holders can bring dependants to the UK, including a spouse or partner and children under 18. Dependants are permitted to work and study in the UK without restrictions. They can also apply for settlement after five years, provided the main applicant qualifies for ILR and they have lived in the UK continuously for that period. This makes the route suitable for those seeking to relocate with family as well as for individual professionals.

Section Summary
The Scale-up visa offers a clear pathway to permanent residence in the UK, with the possibility of ILR after five years. To succeed, applicants must meet the continuous residence rule and show they have maintained eligible earnings for at least half their time on the route. Flexibility to switch into other visas and the ability to bring dependants make it a well-rounded immigration option for skilled professionals. For employers, supporting staff through these long-term options can enhance retention and strengthen workforce stability.

 

FAQs

 

What is a UK Scale-up business?

 

A Scale-up business is a company that has achieved an average annual growth rate of at least 20% in either turnover or employee headcount over a three-year period, starting with at least 10 employees. Only businesses that meet this definition and hold a Scale-up sponsor licence can initially sponsor Scale-up visa applicants.

 

Can you switch into the Scale-up visa inside the UK?

 

Yes, eligible applicants can switch into the Scale-up visa from within the UK if they are on another qualifying visa route. For example, individuals on a Skilled Worker, Student, or other work visa may switch, provided they meet the role, salary, and English language requirements.

 

How long does the Scale-up visa last?

 

The Scale-up visa is granted for an initial period of two years. After this, it can be extended in blocks of three years, provided the applicant continues to meet the minimum salary requirements for at least half of their time in the UK.

 

Is sponsorship always required?

 

No. Sponsorship is only required for the first six months of employment. After this, the visa holder is free to change jobs or employers without needing a new Certificate of Sponsorship. However, when extending their visa or applying for settlement, they must prove that they have earned the minimum salary threshold during at least 50% of their time in the UK.

 

Can dependants join Scale-up visa holders?

 

Yes. Spouses, partners, and children under 18 can apply as dependants on the Scale-up visa. They are allowed to work and study in the UK without restrictions. Dependants can also qualify for settlement if they complete five years in the UK alongside the main visa holder and the family meets the residence and immigration requirements.

 

Conclusion

 

The Scale-up visa offers a unique blend of sponsorship and flexibility that sets it apart from other UK work visa routes. By allowing businesses to sponsor skilled workers for just six months, it reduces the long-term administrative burden while giving employees greater freedom to move within the UK labour market. For high-growth companies, this provides a valuable mechanism to attract and retain international talent without being locked into the full compliance framework of the Skilled Worker route.

From the worker’s perspective, the Scale-up visa combines immediate job opportunities with the long-term benefit of settlement eligibility. The ability to bring dependants and progress towards Indefinite Leave to Remain makes it an attractive option for professionals seeking stability in the UK.

For HR directors, business owners, and senior managers, the key takeaway is that while compliance obligations ease significantly after six months, initial sponsorship duties and right to work checks remain critical. Careful workforce planning, informed decision-making, and ongoing immigration compliance are essential to making the most of the Scale-up route.

Ultimately, the Scale-up visa is a forward-looking tool that aligns with the UK’s goal of strengthening its position as a hub for innovation and growth. Employers who understand its requirements and opportunities can gain a competitive edge in recruiting the specialist skills their businesses need to succeed.

 

Glossary

 

Scale-up business	A UK company that has achieved at least 20% average annual growth in turnover or employee headcount over a three-year period, starting with a minimum of 10 employees.
Sponsor licence	Authorisation granted by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) that allows a qualifying business to issue Certificates of Sponsorship for eligible migrant workers.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	A digital document assigned by a licensed sponsor that confirms the details of the job role, salary, and employer for a visa application.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A fee paid by visa applicants to access the UK’s National Health Service during their stay.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	Permanent settlement status in the UK, allowing individuals to live, work, and study without restriction and without the need for further visas.
Dependants	Family members of the main visa holder, typically including a spouse, partner, or children under 18, who can accompany them to the UK.
Continuous residence	An immigration requirement meaning the applicant must not have been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any 12-month period during the qualifying period for settlement.

 

Useful Links

 

GOV.UK – Scale-up visa guidance	https://www.gov.uk/scale-up-worker
GOV.UK – Sponsor licence guidance	https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers
GOV.UK – Scale-up visa application page	https://www.gov.uk/scale-up-worker/apply
DavidsonMorris – Scale-up visa guide	https://www.davidsonmorris.com/scale-up-visa/
Xpats.io – Scale-up visa overview	https://www.xpats.io/scale-up-visa/