Skilled Worker Visa vs Intra-Company Transfer: Comparing UK Work Options

Skilled Worker Visa vs Intra-Company Transfer: Comparing UK Work Options

If you’re considering working in the UK, you might be wondering about the different visa options available to you. Two popular routes for skilled workers are the Skilled Worker Visa and the Intra-Company Transfer (ICT). While both allow you to work in the UK, there are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of before making a decision.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Skilled Worker Visa vs Intra-Company Transfer, comparing their eligibility criteria, application processes, visa durations, and paths to settlement.

By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which option might be best suited for your individual circumstances.

Skilled Worker Visa

The Skilled Worker Visa is designed for individuals who have been offered a job by a licensed sponsor in the UK. This visa route replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020.

To be eligible for a Skilled Worker Visa, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Have a job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK
2. The job must be at a skill level of RQF3 or above (equivalent to A-levels)
3. Meet the salary requirements, which vary depending on the job ((we’re talking at least £26,200 per year or the going rate for that profession, whichever is higher).
4. Demonstrate English language proficiency.

The application process involves submitting an online application, providing supporting documents, and attending a biometric appointment. If approved, the Skilled Worker Visa is typically valid for up to 5 years and can be extended. This route also provides a path to settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after 5 years of continuous residence in the UK.

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Intra-Company Transfer Visa

The Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) route is designed for multinational companies that need to transfer employees from their overseas branches to their UK offices. This route is split into two categories: Long-term Staff and Graduate Trainee.

To be eligible for an ICT visa, you must:

1. Be an existing employee of a multinational company
2. Have been employed by the company for at least 12 months (for Long-term Staff) or 3 months (for Graduate Trainee)
3. Meet the salary requirements, which vary depending on the category
4. Be working in a role that’s on the list of eligible occupations

The application process is similar to the Skilled Worker Visa, requiring an online application, supporting documents, and a biometric appointment. ICT visas are valid for up to 5 years for Long-term Staff and up to 12 months for Graduate Trainees. One key difference between the ICT and Skilled Worker Visa is that the ICT route does not provide a direct path to settlement in the UK.

Key Differences between Skilled Worker Visa and ICT

Now that we’ve covered the basics of the Skilled Worker Visa and Intra-Company Transfer routes, let’s take a closer look into the key differences between the two:

1. Sponsorship requirements: While both routes require sponsorship from a UK employer, the Skilled Worker Visa allows you to work for any licensed sponsor, whereas the ICT is tied to your current employer.
2. Eligibility based on skill level and salary: The Skilled Worker Visa has slightly lower skill and salary requirements compared to the ICT route.
3. Visa duration and extension options: Both routes offer visas valid for up to 5 years, but the ICT Graduate Trainee is limited to 12 months. The Skilled Worker Visa can be extended indefinitely, while the ICT has a maximum total stay of 5 years in any 6-year period (or 9 years in any 10-year period for high earners).
4. Ability to change employers: With a Skilled Worker Visa, you can change employers as long as the new job meets the visa requirements. ICT visa holders are restricted to working for their sponsoring employer.
5. Path to settlement: The Skilled Worker Visa provides a clear path to settlement after 5 years of continuous residence, while the ICT route does not directly lead to settlement.
6. Dependent family members’ rights: Both routes allow dependent family members to join the main applicant in the UK, but those accompanying Skilled Worker Visa holders have more flexibility in terms of working and studying.

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Choosing the Right Option

When deciding between the Skilled Worker Visa and ICT routes, consider the following factors:

1. Your current employment situation and whether you want the flexibility to change employers in the UK
2. Your long-term goals and whether you aim to settle permanently in the UK
3. The specific requirements of your job offer, including the skill level and salary
4. The rights and opportunities available for your dependent family members

It’s essential to consult with your employer and legal professionals to determine which route best aligns with your individual circumstances and long-term objectives.

Recent Changes and Updates

In recent years, the UK has introduced several changes to its immigration system, including the introduction of the Skilled Worker Visa in December 2020, which replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa. This change aimed to simplify the sponsorship process and make it easier for employers to hire skilled workers from abroad.

Important updates:

– As of April 2024, the minimum salary threshold for the Skilled Worker visa has increased to £38,700 (or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher).

– The list of occupations for which a sponsor can hire someone at a reduced salary has been shortened.

It’s important to consult the UK government’s official website for the latest information on visa requirements and updates: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa