The Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa category is for people who wish to work in the UK who are internationally recognised as potential world-leading talent or world leaders in the arts and sciences.
The route for both world leaders and potential world leaders is open to active researchers in academic, government or industry research institutions who are economically active in their chosen field.
Initial applications need to be endorsed by a designated competent body. The designated competent bodies are: the Royal Society, Arts Council England, the British Academy and the Royal Academy of Engineering. It is important to note there is a limit of 1,000 endorsements under this category between 6 April 2012 and 5 April 2013.
To qualify, the following criteria must be met:
Exceptional Talent (World Leader) | Exceptional Talent (Potential World Leader) | |
Applicants must meet all the following criteria:
Able to offer a written recommendation from a |
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Length of Stay
If permission under the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa category is approved, the individual may stay in the UK for three years and four months.
Extension applications can be made to stay for a further two years. However, if the competent body that endorsed the original application withdraws its endorsement, the applicant will not be allowed to enter or stay in the UK.
Indefinite Leave to Remain
An individual may apply for permission to settle permanently in the UK after they have been in the country under this visa category (and no other) for five years. To apply, they must be economically active in their field of expertise. The application for settlement must also not be opposed by the competent body that endorsed the original application.
Family Members
The family members of Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) migrants can apply to join their spouse, civil partner, unmarried or same sex partner, or parent (if the applicant is under 18 at the time of application) in the UK.