Scale-up Worker visa
For talented individuals with a high-skilled job offer from an authorised fast-growing UK scale-up business.
The Scale-up Worker visa is a UK work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~£880 application; IHS ~£1,035/year) and processing time (~3 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Scale-up Worker visa is for
For talented individuals with a high-skilled job offer from an authorised fast-growing UK scale-up business.
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence.
Scale-up Worker visa - eligibility criteria
- Job offer from an approved scale-up sponsor
- Job at the required skill level for at least 6 months
- Salary at or above the route threshold
- Knowledge of English at level B1
- After 6 months, can work without sponsorship
Scale-up Worker visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Scale-up Worker visa (United Kingdom) is ~£880 application; IHS ~£1,035/year, with an indicative processing time of ~3 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside the UK |
| Length of stay | 2 years initially, then extendable |
| Work rights | Sponsored for first 6 months, then unsponsored work allowed |
| Study rights | Study allowed alongside work |
| Government fee | ~£880 application; IHS ~£1,035/year |
| Processing time | ~3 weeks |
| Route to PR | Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence. |
Pathway & next steps
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence.
Many applicants also compare Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker visa, HPI · High Potential Individual (HPI) visa, ILR · Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement). Run a free VisaChief check to see which UK route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Scale-up Worker visa pitfalls we fix
Scale-up Worker visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the Scale-up Worker visa cost?
The Scale-up Worker visa government fee is ~£880 application; IHS ~£1,035/year. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at GOV.UK before applying.
How long does the Scale-up Worker visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Scale-up Worker visa lead to permanent residence?
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years of continuous residence.
Can I work on the Scale-up Worker visa?
Work rights: Sponsored for first 6 months, then unsponsored work allowed.
Who can apply for the Scale-up Worker visa?
For talented individuals with a high-skilled job offer from an authorised fast-growing UK scale-up business.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Kingdom government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- GOV.UK - official United Kingdom immigration authority