The UK Scale-Up Visa is designed to attract highly skilled workers to fast-growing companies in the UK. It offers a flexible route for professionals to live and work in the UK with minimal restrictions while supporting the growth of innovative UK businesses.

• Article updated on 10/09/2025

What Is the UK Scale-Up Visa?

Introduced in August 2022, the Scale-Up Visa enables individuals with a high-skilled job offer from an eligible scale-up business to enter the UK without long-term sponsorship requirements. After the initial six months, visa holders can switch jobs or become self-employed.

Official UK Government Guide →

What Is a Scale-Up Company?

To qualify as a scale-up sponsor, the company must:

• Be registered with the UK Home Office as a licensed sponsor
• Show 20% annual growth in turnover or staff for 3 years
• Have employed at least 10 people at the beginning of those 3 years

These are fast-growing, high-potential businesses looking for talent to scale rapidly.

Scale-Up Visa Eligibility Criteria (2025)

To qualify for a UK Scale-Up Visa, you must:

• Have a confirmed job offer from an approved UK scale-up sponsor
• The job must be at RQF Level 6 (graduate level or higher)
• Earn a minimum salary of:
• £36,300/year, or
• £10.75/hour, or
• The “going rate” for the job (whichever is highest)

Other requirements include:

• English language proficiency (B1 CEFR level or higher)
• Proof of maintenance funds (unless certified by employer)

UK Scale-up Visa – Eligible Roles & Industries

Eligible Occupations for Scale-Up Visa

This visa applies to high-skilled jobs in:

• Software development
• Financial analysis
• Engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical)
• Actuarial science
• Medical professions (nurses, doctors, etc.)
• IT business analysts
• Data scientists and statisticians

New Temporary Occupation List →

How the Scale-Up Visa Works

Stage 1: Sponsored Phase (First 6 Months)

• You must work only for your sponsor
• The sponsor must report your employment to the Home Office

Stage 2: Unsponsored Phase (After 6 Months)

• You are free to change jobs
• You can become self-employed or a company director
• No need for a Certificate of Sponsorship after this phase

This hybrid model provides both structure and freedom for workers and businesses.

Application Process for Scale-Up Visa

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Secure a job offer from a registered scale-up sponsor
2. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
3. Gather required documents:

• Valid passport
• CoS reference number
• Proof of salary and qualifications
• English language certificate (IELTS or equivalent)
• Proof of savings (if needed)

1. Apply online via the UK visa portal
2. Attend a biometric appointment

Processing Time:

• 3 weeks (outside UK)
• 8 weeks (inside the UK)

Scale-Up Visa Application Fees (2025)

Your visa will initially be valid for two years, and you can apply to extend it or switch to another visa category.

Can You Bring Family Members?

Yes. Dependants are allowed to join you on a Scale-Up Visa:

• Partner (married, civil, or unmarried with 2+ years relationship)
• Children under 18

They can live, work, and study in the UK.

Dependent visa requirements →

Scale-Up Visa vs Skilled Worker Visa

Read: Skilled Worker Visa Guide →

Pathway to ILR and British Citizenship

You can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK on a Scale-Up Visa or in combination with other qualifying visas.

ILR Requirements:

• Proof of continuous residence
• English language (B1)
• Pass the Life in the UK Test
• No breaches of immigration rules

Once you hold ILR for 12 months, you may apply for British Citizenship.

Benefits of the Scale-Up Visa Route

• Fast-track route to working in the UK
• Flexible after the first 6 months
• No sponsor needed long-term
• Open to high-skilled professionals
• Eligible for ILR and citizenship
• Dependants allowed
• Work, switch jobs, or be self-employed

Documents Required for Scale-Up Visa

• Passport or valid travel ID
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
• Proof of salary meeting the minimum threshold
• Evidence of English proficiency
• Tuberculosis test (if applicable)
• Proof of savings (unless exempt)

Internal Links – Explore More on UKBloom

• UK Work Visa Comparison Tool →
• Global Talent Visa UK Guide →
• British Citizenship Requirements →
• ILR UK Full Guide →
• UK Visa Eligibility Calculator →

FAQs About the UK Scale-Up Visa

Can I switch jobs on a Scale-Up Visa?

Yes, after 6 months with your initial sponsor, you’re free to switch employers or work independently.

Is the Scale-Up Visa a route to settlement?

Yes, you may apply for ILR after 5 years of qualifying residence.

What if my employer loses their scale-up status?

If you’ve already completed your 6 months with them, it will not affect your visa.

How long is the visa valid?

The initial visa is for 2 years and can be extended.

Final Thoughts

The UK Scale-Up Visa offers one of the most flexible work routes for skilled professionals in 2025. If you’re looking for a fast-tracked, lightly sponsored visa that leads to long-term residency and work freedom, this is a compelling option—especially for those in growing sectors such as technology, finance, and science.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult the UK Home Office or an immigration lawyer for personalized advice.

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