The UK offers a range of visa routes for overseas companies to transfer staff and expand business operations. The Global Business Mobility route consists of five sub-categories, each with its own purpose and eligibility requirements.

Senior or Specialist Worker

For senior managers or specialist employees being transferred from a foreign headquarters to a UK branch or subsidiary. Requires a Certificate of Sponsorship from a Home Office-approved sponsor, as well as relevant skills, experience, and minimum salary thresholds. Stay is permitted for up to five years (nine years for high earners). Dependants can accompany the main applicant, but this route does not directly lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).

Graduate Trainee

For employees taking part in a company’s graduate training programme or internship who are being transferred to the UK for training and work experience. This visa allows a stay of up to 12 months and generally does not lead to ILR.

UK Expansion Worker

For senior managers or specialist employees sent to the UK to establish a new branch of a foreign business. The company must not yet have begun trading in the UK. Intended for the early stages of expansion, this visa allows a stay of up to 12 months (with possible extension) but does not lead to ILR.

Service Supplier

For employees or self-employed professionals from a foreign company providing contracted services in the UK under an international trade agreement (such as Free Trade Agreements). Common sectors include consultancy, legal, accounting, and IT services. Requires a valid Certificate of Sponsorship. The permitted stay is usually limited to 6–12 months.

Secondment Worker

For employees temporarily seconded to a UK business under a high-value contract or investment project between a foreign and a UK company. Requires both a project contract and a Certificate of Sponsorship. Stay is permitted for up to 12 months, with the possibility of extension, but this route does not directly lead to ILR.

These Global Business Mobility routes are primarily intended for short-term or temporary assignments and do not, in themselves, provide a direct route to settlement. However, after arrival in the UK, it may be possible to switch to a long-term work visa such as the Skilled Worker visa or another route leading to ILR.

GBM visa applications involve complex requirements and, in many cases, sponsor licence preparation for the employer. Working with an adviser authorised by the Immigration Advice Authority (IAA) under the UK Home Office can ensure the right visa choice, accurate documentation, and a higher chance of approval.