The UK Expansion Worker Visa is a strategic pathway for international companies to establish or expand their presence in the United Kingdom.
It allows senior employees, founders, or executives of an overseas company to temporarily reside in the UK while setting up a branch or subsidiary, offering a smooth transition into the British business ecosystem.

This visa grants temporary residency, which can lead to Permanent Residency (PR) after 7 years, making it one of the most business-oriented routes for corporate expansion in the UK.

With visa-free access to 183 destinations once citizenship is achieved, and a thriving business environment, the UK continues to stand as Europe’s most attractive hub for global entrepreneurs.

WHY CHOOSE THE UK EXPANSION WORKER VISA?

Designed for overseas business owners and senior employees expanding operations into the UK.

  • Fast processing time – typically 1–2 months.
  • No direct investment requirement.
  • Eligible for PR after 7 years of continuous residence.
  • Ability to bring spouse and children as dependents.
  • Opportunity to live and work in the UK while establishing your business.
  • Full access to UK education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
  • Seamless transition to the Innovator or Skilled Worker route for permanent settlement.

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must:

  • Be at least 18 years old and currently employed by a non-UK company.
  • Hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by the overseas employer.
  • Occupy a senior or specialist role vital to the business expansion.
  • Provide proof of sufficient personal funds to support themselves in the UK.
  • Have a clean criminal and immigration record.

INVESTMENT REQUIREMENT

No minimum investment amount is required.
The company must, however, show the financial capacity and genuine intent to establish operations in the UK.

Applicants only need to provide evidence of maintenance funds (approx. £1,270) and company expansion plans demonstrating viable growth potential.

PROCESSING TIME

The UK Expansion Worker Visa is typically processed within 1–2 months, depending on the documentation and sponsor approval timeline.

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT

Applicants must maintain continuous residence in the UK to qualify for permanent residency after 7 years.
Excessive absences may affect eligibility for PR or citizenship.

FAMILY ELIGIBILITY

  • Spouse or partner of the main applicant.
  • Dependent children under 18 years old.

Dependents are granted the same residency rights and access to education and healthcare under the UK’s public system.

INVESTMENT RECOVERY

There is no investment capital required, making this visa ideal for companies seeking expansion without major upfront costs.

WHY CHOOSE CAPITALS28

Capitals28 provides full support throughout the UK Expansion Worker Visa process, from preparing the sponsorship license and compliance documentation to coordinating with immigration authorities and ensuring regulatory adherence.

Our experienced advisors help your business transition seamlessly into the UK market, ensuring your residency and expansion goals are fully realized.

Choose Capitals28 — your trusted partner for business migration and UK residency solutions.

The UK Expansion Worker Visa is designed for overseas companies wishing to establish or expand their presence in the UK. It allows senior employees, founders, or executives to live and work in the United Kingdom temporarily while setting up a branch or subsidiary, serving as a strategic entry into the British market.
The processing time for the UK Expansion Worker Visa is typically 1–2 months, depending on the completion of required documentation and sponsor approval. Capitals28 ensures all compliance and immigration steps are handled efficiently to avoid delays.
Yes. The UK Expansion Worker Visa allows inclusion of the spouse or legal partner and dependent children under 18 years old. All dependents receive full residency rights, including access to education, healthcare, and public services in the United Kingdom.
To qualify for this visa, the applicant must:
1. Be at least 18 years old
2. Be employed by an existing non-UK company
3. Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the employer
4. Occupy a senior or specialist role essential to the expansion
5. Demonstrate maintenance funds (~£1,270)
6. Provide a clean immigration and criminal record
Yes. After 7 years of continuous residence, applicants may qualify for Permanent Residency (PR), provided immigration rules and residence requirements are met. After PR, applicants can eventually pursue UK citizenship, offering visa-free access to 183 destinations worldwide.