Scale-Up Worker Visa or the Skilled Worker Visa

Skill Level

The skill level is higher for a Scale-Up visa holder.

Skilled Worker visa

• • To be eligible for a Skilled Worker visa, applicants are required to have a job offer for a role that is skilled to at least RQF Level 3 (which is equivalent to A-Levels).

Scale-Up visa

• • To be eligible for a Scale-Up Worker visa, applicants are required to have a job offer for a role that is skilled to at least RQF Level 6 (which is equivalent to a degree).

Minimum Salary 

The minimum salary requirement is higher for the Skilled Worker.

Skilled Worker visa

• • The minimum salary that must be paid under the Skilled Worker Visa is £25,600 per annum or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher. It is important to note that there are circumstances where the going rate salary can be lower for Skilled Workers.

Scale-Up visa

• • The minimum salary that must be paid under the Scale-Up visa is £33,000 per annum or the going rate for the job, whichever is higher.

Sponsorship

The sponsorship requirements associated with the Skilled Worker visa are more stringent than those associated with the Scale-Up visa.

Skilled Worker visa

• • Skilled workers must remain sponsored by their employer throughout their visa status up until they have been in the UK for five years after which they can apply for settlement, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

  • A skilled worker will only be able to switch employers if the new employer is able to transfer their skilled worker sponsorship. 

  • A skilled worker is permitted to bring their dependents.

Scale-Up visa

• • Scale-up visas are granted for an initial period of two years, with only the first six months requiring sponsorship. Following the initial six months, scale-up workers are free to work without sponsorship and are able to switch employers or become self-employed. 

  • They can also extend their visas without the need for sponsorship as long as they continue to meet the scale-up requirements. 

  • After a period of five years, scale-up workers can apply for indefinite leave to remain, provided they meet the relevant requirements at that time. 

  • Dependents are eligible to join scale-up workers under this route.

Concluding thoughts

The Scale-Up visa offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing individuals to switch jobs after just 6 months of being in the UK without requiring further sponsorship. However, it's important to note that Scale-Up businesses must meet strict eligibility criteria to be eligible for sponsorship, which means that fewer companies qualify to sponsor under this route. As a result, it's essential for potential applicants to carefully evaluate whether the increased flexibility provided by the Scale-Up visa is worth the trade-off of the more stringent eligibility criteria.

How can Paragon Law help?

Paragon Law’s business immigration team has been ranked as top-tier department by the Legal 500. Our dedicated team of experienced immigration lawyers is committed to providing bespoke services to businesses of all sizes and sectors, helping them to successfully recruit top talent from overseas. We have a proven track record of assisting individuals and businesses in acquiring the visa they need to work in the UK. Whether you're looking to apply for a Skilled Worker visa or a Scale-Up visa, our team is here to guide you through the process and ensure a smooth transition. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help you achieve your immigration goals.