Who is eligible to apply?

The GAE visa is designed for individuals seeking to enter the UK for a period of 12 or 24 months to participate in approved internships, training programmes, work experience placements or research projects. This visa is intended for those aiming to gain valuable professional experience or contribute to specific research fields in the UK. Whilst the GAE visa offers significant opportunities for personal and professional development, it is important to note that it does not provide a direct route to settlement in the UK. The primary purpose of this visa is to facilitate temporary residence and cultural exchange, promoting international collaboration and knowledge sharing. Although the GAE visa does not lead directly to settlement, it can serve as an excellent stepping stone for individuals looking to enhance their skills and potentially explore other long-term visa options in the future.

What are the visa requirements?

To obtain a Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa, applicants must meet several important requirements. The planned role should not fill a vacancy in the UK labour market and must be included in the designated tables of the Appendix Skilled Occupations. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate sufficient personal savings to support themselves in the UK and must not fall under any general grounds for visa refusal. If required, a valid tuberculosis certificate must also be submitted. These requirements are designed to achieve the objectives of the GAE visa programme and ensure the eligibility of applicants.

Are there any other requirements?

Yes, the Certificate of Sponsorship must be issued by a sponsor holding a valid Temporary Work - Government Authorised Exchange sponsor licence and authorised by the Home Office to sponsor individuals on the particular scheme. The certificate must include essential information such as the applicant's name, job details, salary, start date, and confirmation of the role's suitability. It must also confirm that the role doesn't fill a labour market vacancy and is listed in the Appendix Skilled Occupations.

Additionally, applicants must meet the 'genuine job requirement'. This means clearly demonstrating to the Home Office that they genuinely intend to undertake the sponsored role and have the ability to do so. Applicants must not intend to undertake employment other than in the sponsored role. This requirement helps maintain the integrity of the visa system and ensures the GAE programme fulfils its intended purpose.

Do I need to be fluent in English?

The Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa does not have specific English language requirements. This is a distinguishing feature compared to many other UK visa categories. The fact that proof of English proficiency is not required means that the GAE visa is open to participants from diverse countries and language backgrounds. This policy aligns with the GAE programme's objective of promoting international exchange and cultural diversity, providing opportunities for individuals with professional knowledge and experience to work or research in the UK for a short period, regardless of their English language skills.

What is the maximum period of stay?

The duration of a GAE visa is the period stated on the Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days before and after this period. When extending the stay, the shortest of several conditions will apply, and extensions can be granted for up to 12 or 24 months. This allows for flexible adjustment of the stay duration according to the applicant's situation and programme characteristics.

Can I bring my family?

GAE visa holders can bring their family to the UK. Eligible family members include spouses, civil partners, unmarried or same-sex partners (with a relationship of at least 2 years), and children under 18. They must apply for separate dependant visas and provide proof of family relationship and meet financial requirements. Dependant visa holders can work or study in the UK, and their period of stay is the same as the main applicant's visa period.

Can I have a supplementary job?

GAE visa holders must comply with specific conditions of stay as per their approved visa. Primarily, they can work for their sponsor in the job described on their Certificate of Sponsorship, which may include volunteering and job shadowing if recorded on the certificate. Additionally, they have the flexibility to undertake supplementary employment or studies alongside their main role. However, GAE visa holders are restricted from accessing public funds. These conditions are designed to ensure activities align with the visa's purpose while providing a certain level of freedom, allowing visa holders to maximise their experience in the UK.

Am I eligible to apply for ILR on a GAE visa?

The GAE visa is not a direct route to permanent residence in the UK. This visa is primarily designed for short-term stays of 12 or 24 months, and this period is generally not recognised as qualifying residence time for settlement purposes. However, GAE visa holders have opportunities to switch to other immigration routes within the UK.

For example, GAE visa holders may be eligible to switch to a Global Talent visa. This visa can be applied for in the fields of academia and research, arts and culture, and digital technology, either as an individual with 'exceptional talent' or 'exceptional promise'. Applicants must obtain endorsement from a designated body. The Global Talent visa offers more flexibility as it does not require employer sponsorship, proof of English language ability, or minimum salary requirements. It allows stays of up to 5 years and offers the possibility of applying for settlement after 3 or 5 years, depending on the circumstances.

It is worth noting that time spent on a GAE visa can count towards a settlement application based on 10 years of continuous lawful residence in the UK. Therefore, while the GAE visa itself does not allow direct application for settlement, there are possibilities for obtaining permanent residence in the long term by either switching to other appropriate visas or through long-term continuous residence. This provides GAE visa holders with opportunities for extended stay in the UK and career development.

The process of applying for, extending, or switching from a Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa can be very complex and varied depending on individual circumstances. Various factors need to be considered, including each individual's nationality, education, work experience, financial status, family accompaniment, and previous visa history. Due to frequent changes in immigration policies, it is essential to verify the most up-to-date information. The visa application process involves several complex legal procedures, requiring careful attention from document preparation to interview preparation.