Global Business Mobility (GBM) Visa
Expand your business & transfer key staff to the UK. The GBM visa allows overseas companies to transfer staff, establish UK operations, and deliver international contracts.
Why Choose WPC Global for Your Business?
We help companies and professionals across the UAE and MENA region navigate corporate immigration with precision.
Sponsorship Strategy
We help your UK entity secure the correct Sponsor Licence (Expansion vs. Skilled Worker).
Eligibility Assessment
We determine which of the 5 GBM routes fits your employee's role and salary.
Sponsor Licence & CoS Support
We assist UK sponsors with licensing and Certificates of Sponsorship.
Compliance-First Strategy
Applications aligned with Home Office audit expectations.
End-to-End Management
From assigning Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) to final visa approval.
UAE & MENA Expertise
Specialized support for businesses expanding from the Middle East to the UK.
Which GBM Route is Right for You?
The Global Business Mobility visa covers five sponsored UK work routes, designed for temporary business assignments.
Senior or Specialist Worker
Transferring experienced managers or specialists to an existing UK branch.
UK Expansion Worker
Senior managers sent to set up a new UK branch (not yet trading). Must have worked for the company overseas for 12 months.
Graduate Trainee
Trainees on a structured graduate programme transferring to the UK. Must have 3 months prior experience with the company.
Service Supplier
Overseas professionals providing a service under a trade agreement. Must have a valid contract & 12 months professional experience.
Secondment Worker
Staff seconded to the UK for a high-value contract (£50m+). Job must be graduate level; contract must be registered.
Core Requirements for All Routes
Three core pillars apply to almost all Global Business Mobility applications.
Sponsorship is Mandatory
You cannot apply without a job offer. Your UK sponsor must hold a valid Sponsor Licence and issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) detailing your role.
The “12-Month Rule”
Generally, you must have worked for your overseas employer for at least 12 months before transferring.
Exemptions: High Earners (£73,900+), Japanese/Australian Nationals, Graduate Trainees (3 months only)
No Direct Route to Settlement
GBM routes are designed for temporary assignments and do not lead directly to ILR. For permanent settlement, you may need to switch to Skilled Worker, Global Talent, or Innovator Founder.
Bringing Your Family (Dependants)
Global Business Mobility is a family-friendly route. You can bring your partner and children with you.
Spouse/Partner
Must be married or in a civil partnership (or living together for 2 years)
Children
Under 18 (or over 18 if already dependent on you)
Financial Support Required
You must prove you have funds to support your family if your employer is not certifying maintenance:
Application Fees & Timeline
⏱️ Processing Time
💷 Visa Fees
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Global Business Mobility Visa?▼
The Global Business Mobility (GBM) visa route allows overseas businesses to send their employees to the UK for temporary assignments. It includes several categories such as Senior or Specialist Worker, Graduate Trainee, UK Expansion Worker, and Service Supplier, replacing the previous Intra-company Transfer visa.
What are the different categories under Global Business Mobility?▼
The GBM visa includes five main categories: • Senior or Specialist Worker: For experienced employees with specialist skills • Graduate Trainee: For recent graduates on structured training programmes • UK Expansion Worker: For overseas businesses establishing a UK presence • Service Supplier: For employees providing services under international trade agreements • Secondment Worker: For employees on temporary assignments Each category has specific eligibility requirements and conditions.
What are the eligibility requirements for a GBM Senior or Specialist Worker visa?▼
Key requirements include: • Must work for an overseas business with a UK entity • Minimum salary of £45,800 or the 'going rate' for the job • Have worked for the overseas business for at least 12 months • Job must be at an appropriate skill level • Certificate of Sponsorship from UK employer • Meet English language requirement (Level B1) • Adequate maintenance funds • Clean criminal record certificate (if required)
How long can I stay on a Global Business Mobility visa?▼
Stay duration varies by category: • Senior or Specialist Worker: Up to 5 years (with possible extension to 9 years total) • Graduate Trainee: Up to 12 months (no extension) • UK Expansion Worker: Up to 2 years (no extension) • Service Supplier: Usually up to 6 months per 12-month period You cannot settle permanently on most GBM visas, except in very limited circumstances.
Can I bring my family on a Global Business Mobility visa?▼
Yes, you can bring dependents: • Spouse or unmarried partner • Children under 18 • Adult children in some circumstances Dependents can: • Work without restrictions (except Graduate Trainee dependents) • Study • Access healthcare They must apply at the same time or after your visa is granted and meet relationship and financial requirements.
What is the application process for a GBM visa?▼
The application process involves: 1. UK employer obtains sponsor license (if not already held) 2. Employer assigns Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) 3. Gather required documents and evidence 4. Submit online application 5. Pay visa fees and Immigration Health Surcharge 6. Attend biometric appointment 7. Wait for decision (usually 3-8 weeks) 8. Travel to UK and complete landing formalities Priority processing services may be available for faster decisions.
Ready to Expand to the UK?
Navigating the Global Business Mobility routes requires precise planning. WPC Global simplifies corporate immigration so you can focus on your business growth.