The UK’s Global Talent visa is a flagship immigration route designed to attract preeminent leaders and exceptional emerging talent in academia, research, science, digital technology, and the arts. The purpose of this visa, as established by the UK government, is to reinforce the UK’s global standing as a hub for research, creativity, and innovation. Unlike many traditional work visas, the Global Talent visa offers significant flexibility — there is no requirement for employer sponsorship, or a pre-existing job offer, and holders are free to work, change employers, be self-employed, or even establish their own business in the UK.

Who qualifies for ILR on the 3-year route?

Applicants can qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years in several specific scenarios under the current immigration rules. If an applicant was endorsed by any of the following bodies—the British Academy, the Royal Academy of Engineering, the Royal Society, or UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)—they become eligible for ILR after three years of continuous and lawful residence, regardless of whether they were endorsed as a recognised leader (“exceptional talent”) or as an emerging leader (“exceptional promise”).

In contrast, applicants who were endorsed by Arts Council England or Tech Nation become eligible after three years only if their endorsement was at the recognised leader (“exceptional talent”) level in arts and culture or digital technology. Those who were endorsed by Arts Council England or Tech Nation as emerging leaders (“exceptional promise”) in these fields must complete five years of continuous residence before becoming eligible to apply for ILR. Importantly, any applicant who did not require an endorsement because they were granted a Global Talent visa by virtue of winning a qualifying prestigious award listed in the Immigration Rules may also apply for ILR after three years.

How is your qualifying period calculated?

The three-year qualifying period is calculated from the date your first eligible UK visa was issued under the Global Talent route or other permitted categories such as Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent), Tier 2 (General), or Skilled Worker. You must possess a valid Global Talent visa at the time you submit your ILR application, and you are not permitted to apply more than 28 days before your qualifying period is completed. All your residence during this period must be continuous and lawful, with no gaps or periods of overstaying.

What is the continuous residence requirement?

Continuous residence means you must not have been outside the UK for more than 180 days in any rolling twelve-month period during the qualifying years. Under certain circumstances, especially for approved work or research outside the UK in relevant fields, permitted absences may apply, but all periods must be lawful and in accordance with your visa conditions.

Are family members eligible for ILR after 3 years?

Family members, including partners and children holding Dependant visas, will only become eligible for ILR after completing five years of continuous and lawful residence in the UK, regardless of whether the main applicant qualified for ILR via the accelerated three-year route. Their qualifying period begins from the date their own Dependant visa was granted.

What other requirements must be met?

You must be able to show that you have earned money in the UK during your most recent period of Global Talent permission, and that those earnings were directly related to your endorsed field or the area connected to a recognised prize, if applicable. While there is no minimum threshold, documentation such as payslips, bank statements, or invoices is required. Applicants must also meet the good character requirement, pass the Life in the UK Test, and satisfy the English language requirement (usually B1 or higher, unless exempt).

Meeting the criteria for ILR through the Global Talent route after three years is a considerable challenge and not a simple procedural matter. Professional guidance can help to ensure a smooth process and minimise the risk of refusal. ARIS International Lawyers has assisted many Global Talent visa holders and their families in successfully settling in the UK via the 3-year ILR route. For expert assistance, call 020 3865 6219 or leave a message for confidential advice and support.