Blue card UK

The Blue Card is a system designed to attract highly skilled people from outside the European Union to EU member states. However, the UK, having left the EU, does not participate in the EU Blue Card system. Instead, the UK has developed its own immigration categories that are aimed at attracting foreign professionals. In this article we will look at what alternative programmes the UK offers for highly skilled migrants.

Alternatives to the Blue Card in the UK

The UK offers several types of visas and immigration programmes for highly skilled professionals:

  1. Global Talent Visa: This visa is for talented and promising professionals in sectors such as science, arts and technology. Candidates must be approved by one of the recognised bodies such as the Royal Society or Arts Council England before applying for the visa.
  2. Skilled Worker Visa: This visa replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa after Brexit and is for professionals who have a job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK. The job must meet minimum salary and skill requirements.
  3. Innovator Visa: Designed for those who want to set up and grow an innovative business in the UK that brings real benefits to the UK economy. A proven business idea and investment funds are required.

Application process for alternative visas

The process of applying for these visas involves several key steps:

  1. Proof of qualifications: All of the visas listed require proof of professional skills, education or business qualifications.
  2. Sponsor or endorsement: Skilled Worker and Innovator visas require a sponsor or endorsement from the relevant body.
  3. Applying: Visa applications are submitted online. You need to fill in the application form, pay the fees and submit the required documents.
  4. Biometric Information: Candidates are required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).

Although the UK does not participate in the EU Blue Card programme, it offers a number of alternatives that attract highly skilled professionals from around the world. Each of these programmes has its own requirements and procedures, and potential candidates need to research them thoroughly in order to successfully apply for the appropriate visa. These programmes are key elements of the UK’s immigration policy, which aims to strengthen the country’s economic and cultural potential.

Who can apply for a blue card for UK?

Although the UK does not participate in the EU Blue Card programme after Brexit, the country has developed its own immigration schemes to attract highly skilled professionals from outside the European Union. In this article we will look at who can qualify for work visas, which are functionally analogous to the Blue Card, as well as the key requirements and criteria for potential candidates.

Visa categories and requirements

  1. Global Talent Visa: This visa is for leaders or potential leaders in the fields of science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology or arts and culture.
    • Requirements: An endorsement from one of the recognised bodies such as the Royal Society or Arts Council England is required, which will confirm the candidate’s exceptional talent or promise.
  2. Skilled Worker Visa: This visa is for those who have a job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK and whose work meets the requirements of a RQF3 or above qualification (equivalent to A-levels).
    • Requirements: The employer must confirm that the salary meets the minimum requirements (usually starting at £25,600 per annum, although there may be exceptions).
  3. Innovator Visa: Designed for those who want to set up a business in the UK based on an innovative, viable and scalable business idea.
    • Requirements: Having a meaningful business idea endorsed by one of the recognised body endorsers and available investment funds of at least £50,000.

Application process

To apply for any of these visas, applicants must first ensure that they meet all the requirements. The process includes:

  • Making an online application.
  • Providing necessary supporting documents including passport, proof of qualifications, diplomas, letters of recommendation and others.
  • Payment of application and health care fees.
  • Visiting a visa centre to provide biometric data.

Although the UK does not offer an EU Blue Card, its immigration system provides many opportunities for highly skilled foreign professionals wishing to work or do business in the UK. Each programme has its own unique requirements and application process, which requires careful preparation and an understanding of UK immigration policy.

UK blue card requirements

Since the UK left the European Union, it does not participate in the EU Blue Card programme. However, the UK has developed its own immigration categories to attract highly skilled individuals from outside the EU. In this article we will look at the main requirements for work permits in the UK, which are functionally similar to the Blue Card.

Key immigration categories and requirements

  1. Global Talent Visa
    • Purpose:Toattract outstanding talents in the fields of science, art, literature, engineering, technology, etc.
    • Requirements:
      • Evidence of international recognition in their field.
      • Approval from a relevant body such as the Royal Society or Arts Council England.
      • Evidence of leadership or potential leadership ability.
  2. Skilled Worker Visa
    • Purpose:To fill scarce vacancies in the UK with qualified people.
    • Requirements:
      • Job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK.
      • The job must meet the SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) code, which requires skills at RQF3 level or above (essentially A-level).
      • Minimum salary threshold depending on specialism and position, usually starting at £25,600 per annum or the appropriate industry rate.
  3. Innovator Visa
    • Purpose:Tosupport entrepreneurs seeking to set up and grow innovative businesses in the UK.
    • Requirements:
      • Having an innovative and viable business plan with potential for growth.
      • Recommendation from an approved endorsing body.
      • Access to investment funds of at least £50,000.

Application process

  • Document Preparation: Candidates need to prepare a comprehensive package of documents including professional certificates, evidence of work experience, educational qualifications and business plans where appropriate.
  • Online application: Applying is usually done through the UK government’s online platform.
  • Fees and biometrics: Payment of the relevant fees and submission of biometrics at the visa application centre.

While the UK does not offer a blue card on the EU model, its immigration programmes offer significant opportunities for highly skilled foreign professionals. These programmes help the country to attract global talent and maintain its leadership in key industries. Those who qualify and are willing to undergo the process have significant career and life prospects in the UK.

How do I get the blue card in UK?

The UK does not participate in the EU Blue Card programme, but offers a number of alternative immigration categories that attract highly skilled individuals from outside the European Union. These immigration visa categories provide opportunities to work and develop a career within the UK. This article will look at the steps you need to take to obtain a work permit similar in purpose to the Blue Card.

Immigration visas and the process of obtaining them

  1. Global Talent Visa
    • Target audience: Outstanding talents and leaders in fields such as science, arts and technology.
    • Key Requirements: Approval from a recognised body in the UK such as the Royal Society or Arts Council is required.
    • Process for obtaining: Applicants must prove their achievements and obtain the appropriate endorsement before submitting an application.
  2. Skilled Worker Visa
    • Target audience: Professionals who have a job offer from a UK employer.
    • Key Requirements: The employer must be a licensed sponsor and the salary offered must meet minimum requirements.
    • The process of obtaining: Submitting an application with the support of the employer and providing all necessary documents.
  3. Innovator Visa
    • Target audience: Entrepreneurs wishing to set up and grow a business in the UK.
    • Key requirements: Availability of a unique business idea and investment funds.
    • Process: Submission of the business plan to the endorsing authority for approval and subsequent application for a visa in case of a favourable decision.

General steps to apply for a visa

  • Document Gathering: Includes preparation of educational certificates, professional references, proof of financial stability, and other important papers.
  • Online application: All applications are submitted through the official UK government portal.
  • Biometric information: After submitting the application, you need to visit the visa application centre to provide biometric information.
  • Waiting for a decision: The processing time may vary, depending on the visa category and the current workload of the services.

Obtaining a work permit in the UK requires careful preparation and an understanding of the requirements, which depend on the visa category chosen. Each visa has its own specifications and is designed for different purposes and professional tasks. When planning to immigrate to the UK, it is crucial to determine which category best suits your professional profile and career ambitions.

How much do I have to earn to qualify for a blue card in UK?

Although the UK does not participate in the EU Blue Card programme, it offers similar visa categories for highly skilled professionals. One of the key aspects of obtaining a UK work visa is meeting the minimum salary requirements. This article looks at the basic salary requirements needed to qualify under the various work visa categories.

Skilled Worker Visa

This visa is for professionals who have a job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK. The minimum salary threshold for qualification under this category depends on the specific requirements of the vacancy and the skill level of the position:

  • General Requirements: Most jobs require earning at least £25,600 per annum or the relevant industry minimum salary for the specific position, whichever is higher.
  • Exemptions: Lower thresholds are available for certain professions such as health professionals, engineers and scientists. Exemptions may also apply for new entrants to a profession where the minimum salary starts at £20,480 per annum.

Global Talent Visa

This visa requires a demonstration of outstanding achievement in a key field such as science, art or technology. There is no minimum salary threshold for this category as the key criterion is professional achievement and recognition.

Innovator Visa

This category is for entrepreneurs planning to set up a business in the UK. To qualify under this visa, you must have access to investment funds of at least £50,000. No salary threshold applies as the visa is focused on the candidate’s business potential.

The minimum salary requirements for a UK work visa vary depending on the type of visa and the specifics of the job offered. It is important to thoroughly research all requirements before applying to ensure that you meet the necessary criteria. For successful qualification, it is advisable to consult with an immigration agent or solicitor beforehand to ensure you understand all aspects of the visa process accurately.

What opportunities does the blue card offer in UK?

Although the UK does not participate in the EU Blue Card programme, it offers various types of visas that provide similar opportunities for highly skilled professionals. These visas allow foreign professionals to legalise their stay and employment in the country. In this article, we look at the key opportunities available to visa holders in categories similar to the blue card in the UK.

Main visa categories and facilities provided

  1. Global Talent Visa
    • Professional Opportunities: This visa provides the opportunity to work in the UK without the need for sponsorship from an employer. It is ideal for talented professionals wishing to work in academic, research, artistic, cultural or technological fields.
    • Career Development: Visa holders can take advantage of extensive opportunities for professional development and networking in one of the world’s most developed economies.
  2. Skilled Worker Visa
    • Employment: The visa allows foreign professionals to work for a licensed sponsor, which may include large international companies and organisations.
    • Permanent residence: After five years of employment on this visa, it is possible to apply for permanent residence, which provides stability and more opportunities for personal and family planning.
  3. Innovator Visa
    • Entrepreneurship: This visa is ideal for those who want to set up and grow their own business in the UK. It offers a unique opportunity to launch an innovative start-up in a country with a highly developed business infrastructure.
    • Investment and development:Inaddition to setting up a business, visa holders can attract investment and expand their activities with support from the government and the private sector.

General benefits

  • Social Security and Health Insurance: Visa holders are entitled to access NHS health services, which is a significant benefit of living in the UK.
  • Education for children: Access to quality education for children of visa holders in public schools.

Although the UK does not offer a blue card in the traditional sense of the term, its immigration programmes provide extensive opportunities for highly skilled foreign professionals seeking to work, develop their own business and live in the country. Each of these programmes is different and offers unique opportunities for career and personal growth in one of the world’s leading economies.

UK blue card application process

Although the UK does not participate in the European Union’s Blue Card programme, it offers several alternative visa categories that allow highly skilled professionals from outside the EU to work in the UK. In this article we look at the process of applying for a work permit similar to the Blue Card, including the key steps and requirements.

Key categories of work visas

  1. Global Talent Visa – for leaders in science, engineering, arts and technology.
  2. Skilled Worker Visa – for professionals who have a job offer from a licensed sponsor.
  3. Innovator Visa – for entrepreneurs who want to set up a business in the UK.

Application process

Step 1: Assessing compliance with the requirements

  • Before applying, it is important to thoroughly familiarise yourself with the requirements of the chosen visa category. This may include having a job offer, evidence of leadership ability or an innovative business plan.

Step 2: Gathering the necessary documents

  • Prepare all necessary documents such as passport, diplomas, letters of recommendation, proof of professional qualifications, business plans, and more.

Step 3: Submitting an online application

  • All applications are made through the official UK government portal. You need to complete an application form, upload scans of documents and pay fees.

Step 4: Providing biometric data

  • After submitting the online application, candidates will need to visit the visa application centre to provide biometrics (photograph and fingerprints).

Step 5: Interview and decision

  • In some cases an interview may be required. After that, a decision on the visa will be made and communicated to the candidate.

Important points

  • Processing time: Processing time can vary from several weeks to several months, depending on the visa category and specific circumstances.
  • Legal support: Consultation with an immigration lawyer is recommended to ensure that all forms are completed correctly and procedures are followed.

The process of obtaining a work permit in the UK requires careful preparation and submission of documents. The right visa category and a well-prepared application will increase the chances of successfully obtaining a work permit and continued residence in the country.

Where can I get UK blue card?

Although the UK does not participate in the EU Blue Card programme, it offers several alternatives that allow highly skilled professionals to obtain a work permit to work in the country. These permits offer employment opportunities similar to the EU Blue Card, but involve certain requirements and procedures. In this article, we will look at where and how you can apply for a work permit in the UK similar to the blue card.

Visa categories and application procedure

  1. Global Talent Visa
    • Designed for leaders in specific fields such as science, arts, and technology.
    • You can apply for this visa through the official UK Visas and Immigration portal. It is necessary to obtain approval from the relevant authority confirming your high level of qualification.
  2. Skilled Worker Visa
    • For professionals who have a job offer from a UK employer who is a licensed sponsor.
    • Applications are made online via the UK Government website. The employer must provide proof of sponsorship.
  3. Innovator Visa
    • For entrepreneurs wishing to set up and grow a business in the UK.
    • The application is also done online, and approval of the business idea by the approved authority is required.

Where to go

  • UK Government Online Platform: All work visa applications are made via the official GOV.UK portal. Here you can find all the information you need, including qualification criteria, required documents and instructions on how to apply.
  • Visa Centres: After applying online, you may need to visit one of the visa centres to submit biometric data.
  • Immigration Lawyers: To simplify the process and increase the chances of success, it is recommended to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer. He or she will help you to properly complete all the necessary documents and prepare for the process.

Obtaining a work permit in the UK, similar to a Blue Card, requires careful consideration of the requirements and careful preparation of all the necessary documents. It is important to follow all instructions accurately and utilise the resources available for your application. Despite not participating in the EU Blue Card programme, the UK offers many opportunities for skilled professionals wishing to work and develop in one of the world’s largest economies.

UK blue card processing time

The UK, while not participating in the EU Blue Card programme, offers various types of visas for highly skilled professionals wishing to work in the country. The process of obtaining such visas requires attention to numerous details and compliance with certain procedures. One important aspect is the processing time of applications. In this article, let’s take a look at how long it usually takes to process applications for Blue Card-like work permits in the UK.

Main categories of work visas and processing times

  1. Global Talent Visa
    • Purpose: For internationally recognised leaders in science, art, engineering and technology.
    • Processing Time: Usually takes 3 to 8 weeks after all required documents and biometric data have been submitted.
  2. Skilled Worker Visa
    • Purpose: For professionals who have a job offer from a UK employer.
    • Processing Time: The process can take from 3 to 12 weeks, depending on the specific situation and the accuracy of the documents provided.
  3. Innovator Visa
    • Purpose: For entrepreneurs looking to set up a business in the UK with an innovative business idea.
    • Processing Time: Processing time may vary, but is usually between 3 and 8 weeks after all required documents have been submitted.

Factors affecting processing time

  • Completeness of documentation: Incomplete or incorrectly completed documents can significantly increase the time it takes to process an application.
  • Case Complexity: Complex cases that require additional verification of information or documents may increase processing time.
  • Seasonal workload: During busy periods such as summer months or holiday seasons, processing times may increase.

How to speed up the process

  • Preparation: Careful preparation and review of all required documents before submitting your application can help speed up the process.
  • Professional help: Consulting with an immigration lawyer or specialist can help you avoid mistakes and speed up the processing of your application.

Processing times for UK work visa applications can vary depending on many factors. Understanding these factors and preparing your documents carefully is key to speeding up the process. Despite not participating in the Blue Card programme, the UK offers many opportunities for skilled professionals seeking to work in one of the world’s leading economies.

Changing jobs with a blue card in UK

The UK does not participate in the EU Blue Card programme, but offers various work visas that allow foreign professionals to work legally in the country. Changing jobs on these permits may require certain procedures and conditions to be met, especially if the Skilled Worker or Global Talent visa is involved. This article looks at the main points relating to changing jobs for holders of these work permits in the UK.

Requirements and conditions for changing jobs

  1. Skilled Worker Visa
    • Sponsorship and COS (Certificate of Sponsorship): To change jobs, the visa holder must obtain a new job offer from a licensed sponsor. The new employer must issue a new COS which confirms that the job offer meets the qualifications and salary criteria.
    • Home Office notification: A change of job must be approved by the Home Office before the professional can move to the new job. This requires an application for a change of visa conditions to be submitted through the official portal.
  2. Global Talent Visa
    • Flexibility to change jobs: Global Talent Visa holders can change jobs without having to notify the Home Office, as this visa does not require sponsorship from a specific employer. Professionals are free to work for any employer in the relevant area of their qualification.

The process of changing jobs

  • Obtaining a new job offer: The initial step involves finding and obtaining a job offer from a new employer, who must be a licensed sponsor (for Skilled Worker Visa).
  • Applying for a change of visa conditions: For the Skilled Worker Visa, you must apply for a change by submitting a new COS and other required documents via the UK Visas and Immigration portal.
  • Waiting for approval: After applying for a change, you must wait for a decision from the Home Office. During this process, it is important to continue working in your current position until approval is received.

Conclusion

Changing jobs in the UK for work visa holders requires a clear understanding of the requirements and procedures. It is important to recognise that different types of visa have different requirements for the process of changing jobs. Planning a change of employment should include careful preparation and, where necessary, consultation with an immigration lawyer to ensure that all immigration conditions are met and to avoid potential legal complications.