New Tech Nation Visa Scheme
The recent changes to the Immigration Rules have introduced a new fast-track scheme within the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) entry category for the digital technology sector.
The Tech Nation Visa Scheme is an evolution of the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) entry route and became part of this visa category on 12 November 2015.
Previously, Tech City was only able to endorse applicants under the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) route for ‘world leaders’ in the field.
Since this severely limited its scope, the scheme’s uptake to date has been extremely low. The intention of these latest changes is to widen the remit of the Tech City endorsement to also include ‘potential world leaders’ in technology.
To secure endorsement from Tech City UK, applicants must meet one of the mandatory criteria and two of the qualifying criteria set out in the Immigration Rules ahead of applying for entry to the UK in this category.
The mandatory criteria are:
- a proven track record of innovation in the digital technology sector; and
- recognition for work outside the applicant’s immediate occupation that has contributed to the advancement of their sector
The qualifying criteria are:
- significant technical, commercial or entrepreneurial contributions in the digital technology sector as either a director, founder, or employee of a digital technology sector company;
- recognition as a world leader;
- continuous learning; and
- exceptional ability through academic research.
In addition to meeting the mandatory and qualifying criteria, applicants can now benefit from new criteria, which have come into force and allow for applications to be fast-tracked. Once endorsement is granted, the applicant is then able to apply for a Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa from the UK immigration authorities.
For further guidance on applying for a Tech Nation Visa, contact Smith Stone Walters today.
