A new expansion of the Global Talent visa is to give more than 100 commercial research businesses the ability to support scientists and engineers in living and working in the UK.
For the first time, exceptional researchers coming to the UK to work on funded projects can be supported in their move by UK research intensive businesses thanks to the country’s premier visa route for research talent.
The expansion covers over 100 commercial research businesses, alongside the already approved universities and research institutes. This will include global names like AstraZeneca and Jaguar Land Rover as well as fast-growing innovators, including Added Value Solutions (AVS), Denroy Plastics and Ffilm Cymru.
The R&D companies covered by the expansion each fall into the eight high-growth sectors identified in the government’s modern industrial Ssrategy and include advanced manufacturing, digital and technologies, clean energy, life sciences and the creative industries.
Bringing in top talent from abroad will enable businesses to undertake R&D projects in the UK that will also support jobs for British workers, the government says.
In June, the Global Talent visa was also expanded, with the addition of 13 Association for Innovation, Research and Technology Organisation (AIRTO) members to UKRI’s list of approved host organisations.
“By providing a route for exceptional researchers to work in and contribute to the UK, the Global Talent visa is playing an important role in our mission to advance knowledge, improve lives and drive growth,” says Christopher Smith, talent and skills champion at UKRI International.
“The expansion of the Global Talent visa to innovative businesses across the country will ensure these benefits are felt across more of the country and in a wide range of sectors, from medicines and AI to the creative and cultural economy.”
The Global Talent visa recognises talented individuals at all career stages who have already proven themselves, including through a number of fast-track pathways – a leading academic appointment, a competitive fellowship, or being named on a funded research grant.
