Can I change employers or extend my stay while holding a Scale-up Worker visa, and what conditions must be met?

28.01.2026 13:03:28 As a Scale-up Worker visa holder in the UK, you have specific options for changing employers and extending your stay, subject to certain conditions under UK immigration rules. **Changing Employers:** - For the first 6 months of your visa, you must work for your sponsoring employer for at least 6 months in the job for which you were sponsored. - After completing this 6-month period, you can change employers without needing a new sponsor or applying for a new visa. However, your new job must meet the Scale-up visa's eligibility criteria, including a minimum salary threshold (currently £36,700 per year or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher) and be in an eligible occupation. You must notify the Home Office of any changes in your employment details. - If you change jobs before the 6-month period, you may need to apply for a new visa or have your current one curtailed. **Extending Your Stay:** - The Scale-up Worker visa is initially granted for 2 years. - You can apply to extend it for an additional 3 years, provided you have worked for at least 6 months with your sponsor (or met the employment requirements) and continue to meet the salary and job eligibility criteria. - Extensions are not automatic; you must submit an application before your current visa expires, pay the required fees, and provide evidence of your ongoing eligibility. - After 5 years on this route, you may be eligible for indefinite leave to remain (settlement), subject to meeting continuous residence and other requirements. Please note that immigration rules can change, and it's advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer or advisor for personalized advice based on your circumstances. If you're in Milton Keynes, you can seek local legal experts specializing in UK visas.

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28.01.2026 13:10:21 The Scale-up Worker visa offers more flexibility than many other sponsored routes, but that flexibility comes with specific conditions. During the initial sponsored period (usually the first 6 months), you must remain employed by your sponsoring scale-up company in the role stated in your Certificate of Sponsorship. Changing employers during this initial phase is not permitted. After completing this period, you are allowed to change employers or even work without sponsorship, provided you continue working in a qualifying role at the required skill and salary level. Extensions are possible, but you must show that you have earned at least the minimum salary threshold for a specified period before applying. Evidence such as payslips, contracts, and tax records is critical. Meeting these conditions is essential to maintain lawful status and avoid refusal.

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28.01.2026 13:14:21 Yes, it is possible to change employers and extend your stay on a Scale-up Worker visa, but the rules depend on the stage of your visa. In the early phase, your permission is tied to your original sponsor, and any change of employer would normally lead to a breach of conditions. Once that initial sponsored period has passed, the visa becomes significantly more flexible. You may move to a different employer without needing a new sponsor, as long as the job meets the required skill and salary criteria. For an extension, the Home Office will assess whether you have maintained qualifying employment and income over the relevant period. Careful record-keeping and forward planning are vital to ensure continuity and a successful extension application.

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