What is the Scale-up Worker visa? 6 months of sponsorship, a £39,100 salary, freedom to change jobs after 6 months and extension rules
Published: Last checked: October 20265 min read
Short answer
Scale-up Worker is for people with a job offer of at least 6 months from an approved fast-growing company, paid at least £39,100 or the going rate. The first visa lasts 2 years; after 6 months you can change jobs freely, and extensions need no new sponsor but earnings rules apply.
In short
- This post is general information; it does not assess anyone's own situation. It is based on GOV.UK's Scale-up Worker pages as they were on 17 October 2026.
- Scale-up Worker is for people with a job offer from a Home Office approved, fast-growing ("scale-up") company.
- The first application needs an employer's sponsorship and a job offer of at least 6 months. After 6 months you are no longer tied to the employer: you can change jobs, stop working or be self-employed without telling the Home Office.
- The first visa lasts 2 years. Extensions are for 3 years and need no new sponsor, but an earnings requirement continues. Settlement (ILR) may be possible after 5 years.
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Official sources
This answer is based on the pages below. Check the source yourself before you decide.
- GOV.UK: Scale-up Worker visa
- GOV.UK: Scale-up Worker, your job
- GOV.UK: Scale-up Worker, extend your visa
- GOV.UK: Scale-up Worker, how much it costs
- GOV.UK: Scale-up Worker, your partner and children
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