UK Expansion Worker Visa: A Guide for Swiss Nationals and Residents

If you’re a Swiss national or resident interested in expanding your business to the UK or working in a senior role within a Swiss business that is setting up in the UK, the UK Expansion Worker Visa offers a pathway to make this transition. Here’s a tailored guide to help you understand the key requirements and benefits of this visa route.

Key Highlights of the UK Expansion Worker Visa

The UK Expansion Worker Visa, part of the Global Business Mobility (GBM) routes, is designed for senior managers and specialist employees of overseas businesses planning to expand into the UK. This visa enables you to:

• Establish a UK presence for your Swiss business.

• Be accompanied by your partner and dependent children.

• Undertake work in a genuine, sponsored role.

  
  

Eligibility and Sponsorship Requirements

Swiss businesses must secure a UK Expansion Worker Sponsor Licence to support employee visa applications. Employees must obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the UK-based sponsor, detailing the job role, salary, and required qualifications.

Key Points for Swiss Businesses and Employees:

• The sponsor must demonstrate that the role is genuine and complies with UK employment regulations, including the National Minimum Wage and Working Time Regulations.

• Swiss nationals applying for this visa cannot work for third parties or fulfill routine contract work.

  
  

Work Experience and High Earner Exemptions

To apply for this visa, Swiss employees must have:

• Worked for the Swiss business outside the UK for at least 12 months.

• High earners (with UK salaries of at least £73,900 annually) are exempt from this requirement.

  
  

Job Skill Level and Salary Thresholds

Swiss applicants must meet specific skill and salary criteria:

• Job roles must align with eligible occupations listed in the UK’s Skilled Occupations appendix.

• Minimum salary: £48,500 per year (or higher depending on job requirements).

• Allowances tied to the role may be included in the salary calculation.

  
  

Additional Eligibility Criteria for Swiss Applicants

Swiss nationals must also meet these requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.

• Have at least £1,270 in savings for maintenance (unless exempt).

• Provide a valid TB certificate, if required.

This route does not lead to permanent settlement in the UK. However, other routes such as the Skilled Worker, Scale-up, or Global Talent visa may offer settlement opportunities.

Tailored Support for Swiss Nationals and Businesses

If you’re a Swiss business owner or professional looking to expand into the UK, our expert immigration barristers are here to guide you through the process. From securing a UK Expansion Worker Sponsor Licence to ensuring your application meets all eligibility criteria, we provide comprehensive legal support tailored to your needs.

Contact our immigration lawyers in Switzerland today on +41 21 588 07 70 or get in touch via our contact form to start your UK expansion journey.