Intra-Company Transfers in the UK

Intra-company transfers allow multinational companies to transfer employees from overseas offices to their UK branches or subsidiaries. This guide provides information on intra-company transfers in the UK, including visa categories, eligibility criteria, and application processes.

Visa Categories

There are different visa categories available for intra-company transfers in the UK:

• Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) Visa: For skilled employees being transferred to a UK branch or subsidiary of the same company.
• Tier 2 (Intra-Company Graduate Trainee) Visa: For recent graduate employees being transferred to acquire skills and experience in the UK branch.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an intra-company transfer visa, applicants must typically:

• Be employed by a multinational company with a presence in the UK
• Have a valid job offer from the UK branch or subsidiary
• Meet specific salary and skill level requirements

Application Process

The application process for intra-company transfer visas generally involves the following steps:

1. Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) from the sponsoring employer
2. Completing the visa application form online
3. Attending a biometric appointment at a visa application center
4. Providing supporting documents, including passport, job offer letter, and evidence of qualifications
5. Waiting for a decision on the visa application from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)

Visa Conditions

Visa holders under intra-company transfer visas are typically allowed to work for the sponsoring employer in the UK for a specified period, usually up to five years, depending on the visa category.

Renewal and Settlement

Visa holders may have the option to renew their visa upon expiration if they continue to meet the eligibility criteria. Additionally, individuals who have resided in the UK for a specified period may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain).

Professional Assistance

Given the complexity of immigration laws and visa application procedures, seeking professional assistance from immigration advisors and solicitors is advisable for individuals applying for intra-company transfer visas in the UK.