Once your UK entity begins genuine trading, you do not have to leave the Expansion Worker route immediately. However, the sponsor should add a route, such as Skilled Worker or Senior or Specialist Worker, to its existing licence. UKVI expects a UK trading presence within two years. The route itself is explained in our UK Expansion Worker visa guide.
What changes once trading starts
The Expansion Worker route exists to establish a UK trading presence. Once that happens, the sponsor can add other routes and sponsored workers can switch if eligible. Permission is normally granted for up to 12 months and can be extended, but no individual can spend more than two continuous years on the route.
| Position | Next step | Settlement |
|---|---|---|
| Expansion Worker | Extend if eligible | No direct settlement |
| Moving to Skilled Worker | Switch before permission expires | Can lead to settlement |
| Senior overseas employee | Senior or Specialist Worker where eligible | No direct settlement |
| Founder/director | self sponsorship through Skilled Worker if eligible | Can lead to settlement |
| Eligible specialist | Global Talent | Can lead to settlement |
Switching into Skilled Worker can normally be done inside the UK if the requirements are met. See switching visas from inside the UK and switching routes into Skilled Worker sponsorship.
Adding the Worker route
You add a Worker route to the existing Temporary Worker licence rather than apply for a separate licence. For a small or charitable sponsor there is currently no fee; a large sponsor pays £1,071. Supporting evidence is still required. See sponsor licence documents by business type, sponsor licence for SMEs and the sponsor licence costs guide.
The Authorising Officer must meet requirements, covered in key personnel on a sponsor licence. Key personnel generally need to be UK-based, subject to Expansion Worker exceptions.
After the switch
Skilled Worker sponsorship brings ongoing sponsor duties and compliance responsibilities. Each worker needs a Certificates of Sponsorship, and employers should check SOC codes and job descriptions alongside Skilled Worker sponsorship salary rules. UKVI can conduct sponsor licence compliance visits.
A founder may use self sponsorship where the company can genuinely sponsor the role. The Skilled Worker visa can lead to settlement after five qualifying years. Expansion Worker time does not count towards that five-year period, although lawful time on most routes may count towards ILR based on long residence.
Start the sponsor licence application process before workers approach the two-year limit. Official requirements remain on the GOV.UK global business mobility pages.
Frequently asked questions
Does time on the Expansion Worker route count towards Skilled Worker settlement?
No. The five-year Skilled Worker period starts on the qualifying settlement route.
Can we keep both routes on the licence?
Yes. Expansion Worker can remain on the licence, but the route expires after four years and cannot be renewed.
When should we add the Worker route?
Once the UK business has established its trading presence and before permission becomes time-critical.
Speak to Garth Coates immigration solicitors before any permission expires.
