Exceptional Talent Visa - Tier 1

Foreigners can apply for a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa if they work in a qualifying field and have been endorsed as:

• a recognised leader (exceptional talent)

• an emerging leader (exceptional promise)

To get a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa, you need to be endorsed as a leader (exceptional talent) or emerging leader (exceptional promise) in one of the following fields:

• science

• engineering

• humanities

• medicine

• digital technology

• the arts

• fashion

• architecture

• film and television

How to get endorsed

You can apply online to get endorsed.

Note: If you’re a digital technology specialist you’ll also need to apply for a Tech Nation Visa endorsement.

You may get a faster decision if you’re a digital technology specialist and one of the following applies:

• you’ve been accepted onto a recognised UK accelerator programme.

• you’re part of a senior management team that has experience in building and expanding digital technology business.

• you plan to work and live outside of Greater London.

You may also get a faster decision if you either:

• hold an approved peer-reviewed fellowship.

• are a senior academic or senior researcher at a UK university, college or research institute - check with your employer whether your role is eligible.

You can bring your spouse and kids along.

The processing time of Exceptional Talent visa (Tier 1) is normally 3 months.