UK’s new elite visa is to be launched in a year
During his Budget speech on 3rd March 2021, the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, announced plans for a new “elite” points-based visa as part of the government’s overhaul of the immigration system. This visa will allow highly skilled people from overseas to work in the UK without needing to be “sponsored” by their employer. The new visa is to be launched before March 2022.
This visa will include a “scale-up stream” to enable highly skilled people who have a job offer from a recognised “high growth” business in the UK to fast-track their visa application.
It is anticipated that the “elite” visa will make it easier for financial and digital technology businesses to employ the brightest talent from outside the UK, as the government seeks to encourage innovation and entrepreneurial spirit to boost the economy following Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic.
This change could significantly benefit start-ups and scale-ups in sectors like fintech, AI, and cybersecurity, where access to world-class expertise is essential for growth. It also reflects the UK government’s commitment to making the country a more attractive destination for entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals.
We recommend that potential applicants and employers begin preparing now by reviewing their talent strategies and keeping an eye on upcoming announcements. As soon as the official criteria are released, we will provide a detailed breakdown and practical guidance to help you navigate the new application process with confidence.
No details on the requirements and criteria for this new visa have yet been released, but it is expected that more details will be announced in July this year. We will update you as soon as we have more information.
