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Graduate Trainee Visa - Global Business Mobility

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Understanding the Graduate Trainee Visa in the UK

  • The Graduate Trainee (Global Business Mobility) Visa is your gateway to a world of professional opportunities in the UK. Designed for recent international graduates, this visa category offers a unique blend of work experience and professional development opportunities within the UK.

  • This visa category is a testament to the UK's commitment to nurturing global talent and promoting international collaboration. Introduced to foster economic growth and innovation, this visa allows recent graduates from across the globe to engage with the UK's dynamic business landscape. By offering them the chance to work, learn, and contribute, this visa category not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the diverse and vibrant professional environment in the UK.

  • The Graduate Trainee Visa (Global Business Mobility) was introduced in April 2022 as part of the UK's new points-based immigration system. It replaced the previous Intra-Company Transfer Graduate Trainee visa.

  • The visa is designed to help UK businesses attract and retain top overseas talent. It is also designed to give overseas graduates the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the UK and to develop their skills and knowledge.

Advantages of the UK's Graduate Trainee Visa

  • These are some of the various benefits offered by the UK’s Graduate Trainee Global Business Mobility Visa, including access to professional training programs and the potential for career advancement. The opportunity to start or run a graduate training programme for a managerial or specialist role in the UK
    • The chance to gain valuable work experience in the UK and to develop your skills and knowledge.
    • The potential to earn a higher salary than you would in your home country.
    • The opportunity to live and work in the UK, which is a global leader in many industries. The chance to access high-quality education and healthcare.
    • The potential to apply for indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after five continuous years of living in the UK on a Graduate Trainee Visa (Global Business Mobility).

At AGCL Immigration and Visa Services, our team of experts is dedicated to guiding you through the application process, ensuring a seamless transition to the UK.

Qualifying Criteria for the Graduate Trainee Visa

  • To be eligible for the Graduate Trainee Visa, applicants typically need to meet certain criteria
    • You must be an overseas graduate
    • You must have been working for your sponsor outside the UK for at least 3 months immediately before the date you apply for this visa category
    • You must have a job offer from an approved sponsor
    • Your job offer must be for a graduate training programme for a managerial or specialist role
    • You must be an existing employee of an organisation that’s been approved by the Home Office as a sponsor
    • You must be paid at least the minimum salary of £24,220 for your occupation
    • You must meet the English language requirements.
  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a document that your employer will provide to you. It confirms that your employer has a job offer for you and that they can sponsor you for a visa.
  • You must meet the English language requirements. To meet the English language requirements for the Graduate Trainee Visa, you must either be a national of a country where English is the official language, have a degree or higher taught in English, have a school level qualification gained by studying at a UK school that you began when you were under 18, or pass an approved English test at CEFR level B1 or higher. If you do not meet any of these criteria, you may still be able to apply for the Graduate Trainee Visa if you can pass an English language test at CEFR level B1 or higher within 6 months of arriving in the UK.

Above are most common and generic requirements. It’s important to note that specific requirements can vary based on individual circumstances. If you wish to obtain your case specific professional advice and expert guidance tailored to your situation from our qualified team of immigration advisors, then do not hesitate to contact us.

To obtain professional, most up-to-date, and accurate advice on your  visa requirement please  contact our experienced, and accredited team of immigration consultants on 020 3911 1115 or send us your query using this form or email us on info@agclservices.com or request a call back.

Documents required for the Graduate Trainee Visa

  • For a successful ‘Graduate Trainee’ visa application, the submission of various documents is imperative. The following list comprises some key documents; however, it’s essential to note that additional documents may be necessary based on your unique circumstances.

Mandatory Documents required for Graduate Trainee Visa

  • When applying for this visa, several key documents are crucial for a successful application. You will need to submit a valid passport, ensuring it has at least one blank page for visa stamps and that its validity extends beyond your intended stay in the UK. Additionally, you must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by your UK employer, confirming your job offer and employment details. Proof of your qualifications, typically in the form of documents verifying that you have completed a degree-level or higher qualification from an accredited institution, is also essential. You must also demonstrate your financial capability to support yourself during your stay in the UK, often through bank statements or a sponsorship letter. In some cases, applicants from certain countries may be required to provide Tuberculosis (TB) test results.

Additional Documents (Based on Individual Circumstances)

  • The aforementioned documents encompass both generic and mandatory requirements. Depending on your specific circumstances, additional documents may be either required or advisable. These supplementary documents can encompass a range of items, such as proof of English language proficiency, achieved through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. You may also need to provide records of previous employment or internships that are relevant to your field. If applicable, a certificate attesting to the absence of a criminal record might be necessary. Furthermore, it can be beneficial to include evidence of your travel history, including details of previous visas and entry/exit stamps in your passport. The inclusion of these additional documents strengthens your application and can enhance your prospects of securing the Graduate Trainee Visa for the UK.
  • It is paramount to ensure that all submitted documents, whether mandatory or supplementary, adhere to the requisite standards, furnish the necessary evidence, and provide comprehensive information. This meticulous attention to documentation ensures that Visa Officers can make timely, informed, and accurate decisions regarding your application.

When applying for the Graduate Trainee (Global Business Mobility) Visa, certain documents are essential for a successful application. These include:

  • Your valid passport: A passport with at least one blank page for visa stamps and with a validity that extends beyond your intended stay in the UK.
  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Issued by your UK employer, the CoS is a vital document that confirms your job offer and employment details.
  • Financial Proof: Evidence demonstrating your ability to support yourself during your stay in the UK, which typically includes bank statements or a sponsorship letter.
  • Tuberculosis (TB) Test Results: In some cases, applicants from certain countries may need to provide TB test results.
  • Proof of Knowledge of English language test confirming your proficiency.
  • Police clearance certificate (if required).

Importance of Accurate Documentation and Our Assistance

  • Accurate and comprehensive documentation plays a pivotal role in the success of your visa application. Any oversight or omission can result in delays, rejections, or complications. That’s where our dedicated team at AGCL Immigration Services comes in. We understand the intricate requirements of the Graduate Trainee Visa and provide expert guidance to ensure your documents meet the UK Home Office’s standards. Our experienced advisors meticulously review your paperwork, making sure every detail is in order. With us by your side, you can navigate the visa application process with confidence, knowing that your documentation is in expert hands, increasing your chances of a favourable outcome. Your journey to the UK begins with precise and complete paperwork, and we are here to assist you every step of the way.

Step-by-Step Guide to apply Graduate Trainee Visa

Applying for the Graduate Trainee Visa involves several key steps when you are applying from outside the UK. First, you’ll need to secure a CoS from a UK employer. Then, complete the online visa application form, pay the required visa application fee, provide the necessary supporting documents, attend a biometric appointment (if applicable), and submit your visa application.The process can be complicated, especially as it requires gathering detailed documentation, and handling everything yourself can be challenging.

Let AGCL Services Handle Your Graduate Trainee Visa Application

Alternatively, AGCL Services is here to help you with the entire Graduate Trainee Visa application process. We are well-versed in the details of Global Business Mobility visas and will ensure that all your documents are in order, your application is complete and is well represented. With our professional assistance, you can avoid common mistakes and delays, allowing you to make your journey to the UK seamlessly to build your work experience through your Graduate Trainee Visa.

Get in Touch for Graduate Trainee Visa Support

To obtain professional, most up-to-date, and accurate advice on your visa requirement you can contact our experienced, and accredited team of immigration consultants on 020 3911 1115 or send us your query using this Contact Us Form or email us on ukvisa@agclservices.com or request a call back by providing your contact details here and one of our experts will reach out to you to discuss your visa needs.

Processing Time for Graduate Trainee Visa

  • When planning to apply for the Graduate Trainee Visa, it’s important to note that you can submit your visa application up to three months before the intended start date of your work in the UK, which is indicated on your certificate of sponsorship.
  • During your application process, you’ll be required to verify your identity and submit the necessary supporting documents. Depending on your specific circumstances, you may also need to schedule an appointment for this purpose. The requirement for an appointment will be made clear as you initiate your application.

Visa Decision for Graduate Trainee Visa:

  • Once you’ve completed your online application, gone through the identity verification process, and provided the required documents, you can typically expect to receive a decision on your visa application within approximately three weeks. This ensures that you have a clear timeline for your visa processing and can plan your move to the UK accordingly.

Understanding Your Graduate Trainee Visa Validity and Extensions

How long can I stay in the UK on the Graduate Trainee Visa?

  • The Graduate Trainee Visa, designed to facilitate professional development and work experience, is typically granted for an initial (1) duration of up to 12 months or (2) for the time given on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter of these two options. During this period, visa holders can engage in specialized training programs and work in the United Kingdom, gaining valuable skills and insights within their chosen field.

Can I extend / renew Graduate Trainee Visa?

  • You cannot renew initial visa from within the UK. You must apply for extension of visa from outside the UK for this visa category. Overall, you can stay up to 5 years out of total 6 years period if you have spent time in any of the (1) Intra-company Graduate Trainee visa (2) Intra-company Transfer visa (3) Graduate Trainee visa (Global Business Mobility) (4) Secondment Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) (5) Senior or Specialist Worker visa (Global Business Mobility) (6) Service Supplier visa (Global Business Mobility) (7) UK Expansion Worker visa (Global Business Mobility).

Please note that this is just a general overview of the visa validity and extension options for the Graduate Trainee (Global Business Mobility) Visa. Please discuss your case with one of our experienced consultants for more information and obtain specific guidance around your case

Visa Application Fees for the Graduate Trainee Visa Application

Visa Application Fees

  • Application Fee: There is a mandatory application fee of £298 for the Graduate Trainee visa.

IHS – Immigration Health Surcharge

  • Healthcare Surcharge: You are required to pay the healthcare surcharge, which is typically £624 per year for each year of your stay in the UK. The IHS is a mandatory fee that provides access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) It’s important to check the exact amount you need to pay before submitting your application. You must pay the healthcare surcharge for each year that you are in the UK.

Financial Support

  • Financial Support: To demonstrate your financial stability upon arrival in the UK, you will generally need to have at least £1,270 available in your bank account. This amount should have been maintained for a consecutive 28-day period. The end date of this 28-day period should fall within 31 days of your application date.
  • Financial Support from Employer: Your application will typically require proof of these financial resources, unless your employer commits to covering your initial costs for the first month in the UK, up to £1,270.
  • Financial Support for Dependents: It’s worth noting that if you are planning to bring your partner and children with you to the UK, they will also need to demonstrate their ability to support themselves financially while residing in the UK. The specific amount required for them should be verified separately.

Other Charges may be applicable for Global Talent Visa Applications

  • The Biometric Enrolment fee: It’s a fee for providing biometric information, such as fingerprints and photographs, and is currently £19.20.
  • Translation fees: If you need to have any documents translated into English, you will need to pay for the translation service
  • Courier fees: If you need to have your passport or documents couriered to you, you will need to pay for the courier service
  • Priority Service: This service costs an additional £500 with a decision on your application within 5 working days
  • Super Priority Service: It costs £1,000 with a decision on your application by the end of the next working day.

Please note that these fees are in addition to the standard visa application fee. The Priority and Super Priority services are designed to speed up the visa application process. However, it is important to note that there is no guarantee that your application will be processed within the specified timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Graduate Trainee Visa

Q.1  What are the key advantages of the Graduate Trainee Visa?

The Graduate Trainee Visa offers several advantages, including the opportunity to gain practical work experience in the UK, improve your skills, and enhance your career prospects. It allows you to work for a specific employer in a structured training program, making it an attractive option for professional development.

 Q.2  Can I engage in other work or studies while on the Graduate Trainee Visa?

No, you are not allowed to take on additional employment or enroll in full-time studies while holding a Graduate Trainee Visa. This visa is specifically for the sponsored training program with your designated employer.

 Q.3  What is the minimum salary requirement for the Scale-up Worker Visa?

The minimum salary requirement for the Graduate Trainee Visa (Global Business Mobility) is the higher of:

  • £24,220 per year
  • 70% of the ‘going rate’ for the type of work you will be doing
  • The going rate is the average salary for similar jobs in the same location. You can find information about going rates on the UK Government website.
  • If you are paid below the minimum salary requirement, you will not be eligible for the Graduate Trainee Visa (Global Business Mobility).

Please note that the salary requirement is just one of the eligibility criteria for the Graduate Trainee Visa (Global Business Mobility). You must also meet all the other eligibility criteria, such as having a job offer from an approved sponsor and meeting the English language requirements.

Q.4  Is it possible to apply for settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain) after holding this visa?

Generally, the Graduate Trainee Visa does not lead to settlement in the UK. To settle permanently, you may need to explore other visa routes or options, such as the Skilled Worker Visa or the Innovator Visa.

Q.5  Can I switch my current UK Visa to ‘Graduate Trainee’ Visa while being in the UK?

It’s important to note that changing or “switching” to a Graduate Trainee visa from within the UK is not an option. To be eligible for this visa, you must have been employed by your sponsoring company overseas for a continuous period of at least 3 months immediately before submitting your application. As a result, you are required to depart the UK and initiate the application process for the Graduate Trainee visa from your home country or another location outside the UK. This ensures that you meet the necessary employment criteria and can successfully transition to this visa category.

Q.6  Under the ‘Graduate Trainee’ visa category, what ‘you can or allowed to’ and what ‘you can’t or not allowed to’?

What You Can Do (Allowed To):

  • With a Graduate Trainee visa, you are allowed to:
  • Work for the employer who issued your certificate of sponsorship.
  • Pursue your studies.
  • Bring your spouse and children with you if they meet the eligibility criteria.
  • Engage in voluntary work.
  • Travel abroad and return to the UK without any issues.


What You Can’t Do (Not Allowed To):

  • You cannot apply for most benefits or the State Pension from the UK government.
  • Changing jobs during your stay is not allowed.
  • Taking on a second job alongside your sponsored job is prohibited.
  • You are not eligible to apply for permanent settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK during your stay under this visa category.
  • It’s essential to understand and adhere to the conditions and limitations of your ‘Graduate Trainee’ Visa to maintain your legal status in the UK. Violating the terms of your visa can have serious consequences, including visa cancellation and potential removal from the country. If you have questions or need further clarification, it’s advisable to consult with one of our expert immigration advisors.

Contact Our Team of Experts

To obtain professional, most up-to-date, and accurate advice on your visa requirement please contact our experienced, and accredited team of immigration consultants on 020 3911 1115 or send us your query using this form or email us or request a call back.

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