UK Scale-up Worker visa
The UK Scale-up Worker visa is for approved fast-growing businesses and needs only a six-month job offer; changing employer within the first six months requires updating the visa, after which the route loosens considerably.
Core requirements
You must work for an approved fast-growing UK business; the employer must meet specific eligibility criteria to sponsor scale-up workers.
You must have a confirmed job offer to work for an approved scale-up business for at least six months.
You must have a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer with information about the role offered.
The job must be on the list of eligible occupations.
You must be paid a minimum salary in the new job; the page states no figure and points to its eligibility checker.
You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English, and will usually need to prove it when you apply.
Granted for two years; you must apply to extend when it expires.
You can extend as many times as you like, by three years each time, as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements.
After five years you may be able to apply to settle permanently, known as indefinite leave to remain.
If you want to change employer during the first six months of working in your sponsored job, you must apply to update your visa.
A partner and children can apply to join you or stay in the UK as dependants if eligible.
Official sources
- Scale-up Worker visaUK Government · Reviewed 2026-09-06
How immigration works in United Kingdom — the process in order, the current figures with their dates, and what commonly blocks an application.
General educational information only, not personalized immigration or legal advice. Requirements can change; confirm them with the responsible government authority before acting. Next scheduled review: 2026-12-06.