United Kingdom | Global Talent visa expands pathway to commercial research businesses

The United Kingdom announced new skilled worker visa initiatives, including an expanded pathway for academics and researchers under the Global Talent visa, and an upcoming expansion of the Future Technology Research and Innovation (FTRI) scheme.

Key takeaways:

Over 100 commercial research businesses in high-growth sectors are now eligible to hire global researchers under the Global Talent visa scheme, an addition to previously approved higher education, academic and independent research institutions. The expanded pathway is one of four endorsement pathways for researchers and academics under the Global Talent visa, alongside Individual Fellowships, Endorsed Funders and Peer Review.

Additionally, the U.K. government is expected to broaden the FTRI scheme under the Government Authorized Exchange route to companies working in the artificial intelligence, quantum and engineering biology sectors. According to the announcement, the expansion would allow eligible companies to host international researchers, scientists, interns and technical specialists for research, training and work placements of up to two years.

Employers may review eligibility criteria for the Global Talent visa and a full list of newly approved businesses and host research organizations on the U.K. government website.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

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