Moving Abroad

UK Scale-up Worker Visa: Job Offer, Sponsor and Settlement

2 min read

In this guide
  1. Quick answer
  2. What do you need?
  3. Changing employer
  4. Common mistakes
  5. FAQ
    1. How does it compare with Skilled Worker?
  6. Key takeaways
  7. Related guides
  8. Sources

The Scale-up Worker visa lets you work in the UK for a fast-growing business that has been approved as a scale-up sponsor. This guide sets out who qualifies and how long you can stay, based on GOV.UK.

Quick answer

  • You need a confirmed job offer from an approved scale-up business for at least 6 months.
  • Your employer must give you a certificate of sponsorship.
  • The job must be on the list of eligible occupations and pay a minimum salary.
  • You can stay 2 years, then extend as many times as you like by 3 years.
  • After 5 years you may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain.

What do you need?

Requirement Detail
Job offer With an approved scale-up business, for at least 6 months
Certificate of sponsorship Includes information about the role
Eligible occupation On the official list
Salary At or above the minimum
English Speak, read, write and understand it; usually proven at application

Changing employer

If you want to change employer during the first 6 months of working in your sponsored job, you must apply to update your visa. Your partner and children can apply as your dependants.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any fast-growing company can sponsor. The employer must meet specific criteria.
  • Changing employer in the first 6 months without updating the visa.
  • Applying for a job that is not on the eligible list.

FAQ

How does it compare with Skilled Worker?

See the UK Skilled Worker visa guide.

Key takeaways

  • Check employer and job eligibility first.
  • Plan for 6 months with the same sponsor.
  • Settlement is possible after 5 years.

Last updated: October 2026. General information, not legal advice. Confirm on GOV.UK.

Sources

  • GOV.UK: Scale-up Worker visa

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