Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (GBM): FAQs for Swiss Nationals, Residents, and Businesses

If you’re a Swiss national, resident, or business looking to expand into the UK or send skilled professionals to work in the UK temporarily, the Global Business Mobility (GBM) Senior or Specialist Worker Visa may be the solution. This visa is tailored for senior managers and specialist employees of overseas businesses assigned to UK branches or subsidiaries. Below, we answer common questions about this visa route and how it can benefit Swiss individuals and businesses.

What Is the Global Business Mobility Senior or Specialist Worker Visa?

The Senior or Specialist Worker Visa is one of five GBM routes, which include:

• Senior or Specialist Worker

• UK Expansion Worker

• Graduate Trainee

• Service Supplier

• Secondment Worker

This visa is designed for senior managers and specialist employees of an overseas business linked to a UK entity. It facilitates intra-company transfers to undertake temporary assignments in the UK.

Who Can Apply for a Senior or Specialist Worker Visa?

To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be aged 18 or over.

• Have a genuine job offer at the appropriate skill level.

• Possess a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK sponsor licensed for GBM routes.

• Currently work for the overseas business.

• Demonstrate financial self-sufficiency in the UK.

• Meet the salary requirement of at least £45,800 annually (or £73,900 for high earners).

• Have worked for the overseas business for at least 12 months unless earning £73,900 or more.

How Does the Visa Benefit Swiss Businesses?

For Swiss businesses looking to expand into the UK market or strengthen existing operations, this visa allows the seamless transfer of key personnel to UK branches or subsidiaries. It also provides a structured, compliant pathway for Swiss companies to tap into opportunities in one of Europe’s largest markets.

Can Swiss Applicants Bring Their Families?

Yes. Senior or Specialist Worker Visa holders can bring their partner and children under 18 to the UK, provided they meet relationship and accommodation requirements.

Can the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa Lead to Settlement in the UK?

This visa itself does not lead to permanent settlement. However, visa holders can switch to other immigration routes, such as the Skilled Worker Visa or Scale-Up Visa, which offer settlement opportunities.

How Long Can You Stay in the UK?

The length of stay depends on your salary:

• Salaries under £73,900: Maximum of 5 years in a 6-year period.

• Salaries of £73,900 or more: Maximum of 9 years in a 10-year period.

Does My UK Sponsor Need a Licence?

Yes. Your UK sponsor must hold an A-rated Global Business Mobility sponsor licence and meet specific compliance requirements. They must also pay the Immigration Skills Charge when assigning a CoS unless exempt.

How Can Richmond Chambers Switzerland Assist?

Our expert team of immigration lawyers provides bespoke guidance for Swiss nationals, residents, and businesses navigating the GBM Senior or Specialist Worker Visa process. Whether you’re an individual applicant or a business seeking to expand into the UK, we can help with:

• Visa applications for senior managers and specialists.

• Sponsor licence applications for UK businesses.

• Advice on switching to other immigration routes for long-term settlement opportunities.

Contact our immigration barristers today on +41 21 588 07 70 or get in touch via our contact form to get started.