Short answer: The UK Scale-up visa is for people employed by qualifying high-growth employers, with a job offer meeting skill and salary tests. Settlement may be assessed after residence time. It is an employment route alongside Skilled Worker, with different sponsor criteria.
Information updated to October 2026.
Scale-up versus Skilled Worker
| Item | Scale-up | Skilled Worker |
|---|---|---|
| Employer | Qualifying scale-up business | Licensed sponsor |
| Core | High-growth employer role | Role + salary + sponsorship |
| Fit | Offer from a scale-up | Offer from a licensed sponsor |
Global Immigrate note
Confirm the employer qualifies as a scale-up sponsor before choosing this route. Applications are handled by Global Immigrate's in-house professional immigration team.
Use the programme-matching tool or contact Global Immigrate advisors.
This article is general information, not legal or tax advice.