A new Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules, published today, sets out a new immigration category, Global Talent. This both expands and rebrands the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) route.
The new Global Talent category will take effect from 20 February 2020. Those who wish to apply under the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) category must submit an application for leave prior to this date. Any endorsement letters issued after this date can be used in support of an application under the Global Talent category which does not impose any additional entry clearance or leave to remain requirements or conditions.
Endorsing bodies
The Global Talent category is for talented and promising individuals in the fields of science, digital technology and arts and culture. This category will include ‘talent’ applicants who are already leaders in their respective field and ‘promise’ applicants who have shown potential to become leaders.
In order to apply under this category, individuals will require an endorsement from an approved endorsing body. The endorsing bodies will be as follows:
- The Royal Society;
- The British Academy;
- The Royal Academy of Engineering;
- Tech Nation;
- Arts Council England; and
- UK Research and Innovation (UKRI).
UKRI is the only new endorsing body to appear on the list. UKRI will consider applications from individuals operating in the scientific community who will be hosted or employed at a UK research organisation deemed acceptable by UKRI.
Key differences between the routes
The key differences between the categories are as follows:
- Applicants in the fields of science, engineering, humanities and medicine will be able to apply for settlement after three years, regardless of whether they were granted leave under the promise or talent criteria.
- Applicants in the above fields will be able to undertake research overseas, directly related to their grant of leave, without their absences counting towards the absence limit for settlement.
- There will be no cap on the number of available endorsements.
- Applicants will be able to choose how much leave they require, up to a maximum of five years.
New Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules: Conclusion
As we continue to review the Statement of Changes, we will provide in-depth analysis on the new Global Talent category.
In the meantime, if you require any further information, please do contact us.
