GB Skilled & work Temporary

Global Talent visa

Unsponsored visa for leaders in research, arts/culture or digital technology.

Who this route is for

Recognised or emerging leaders in academia/research, arts and culture, or digital tech who hold an endorsement or a qualifying prestigious prize.

Endorsement from a Home Office-designated body (e.g. Royal Society, Tech Nation successor, Arts Council) OR a Prestigious Prize award (no endorsement needed).
Qualify under 'exceptional talent' (already a leader) or 'exceptional promise' (emerging leader); aged 18+.
No salary, job offer, or sponsor required; no English requirement to enter.
Evidence portfolio of achievement appropriate to the field.

Requirements reviewed June 2026. They change frequently — confirm the current rules on the official page before relying on them.

Check your points first

Use the free Skilled Worker Points & Salary Checker to see if you're likely to qualify before you start.

The UK's main sponsored work visa.

IHS-exempt Skilled Worker branch for NHS and eligible health professionals.

Sponsored for 6 months, then work freely with no sponsor for a fast-growing UK firm.

Intra-company transfer route for senior staff sent to a linked UK branch.