Global Talent Visa UK Success Rate

Overview

The Global Talent Visa, introduced in February 2020, forms a significant part of the UK’s offer for talented individuals in science, research, digital technology, and the arts. Designed to replace the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa, this new visa aims to facilitate a smoother and more attractive route for exceptionally talented people to work and live in the UK.

Recently, the UK Home Office commissioned a study by Ipsos to evaluate the Global Talent Visa’s efficacy. The mixed-methods research involved a telephone and online survey of 307 successful visa holders, complemented by 20 in-depth interviews. Here, we dissect the results of this study to provide insight into the success rate of the Global Talent visa.

Discovery of the Global Talent Visa:

The process of learning about the Global Talent Visa can vary greatly, but the study highlighted two significant sources of information. The table below presents how successful visa holders first heard about the Global Talent Visa:

Motivating Factors to Live and Work in the UK:

The decision to live and work in the UK is influenced by several factors, including career prospects and the appeal of the Global Talent Visa itself:

The survey results reveal that career or job-related factors emerged as the primary motivators for Global Talent Visa applications. Features of the visa, including potential eligibility for settlement and endorsement by a recognised body, significantly influenced the decision to relocate to the UK.

Moreover, in the absence of the Global Talent Visa, approximately 66% of respondents would have pursued another type of visa. The flexibility of the visa, which allows holders the freedom to switch employers, was highly valued, granting them the liberty to seek higher-paying jobs or more creative roles.

Satisfaction with the Application Process:

The study investigated the experience of visa holders with various stages of the application process. Here are the satisfaction rates:

Visa holders were generally satisfied with the process, from the endorsement process to the main visa application. Moreover, most found the application form easy to complete, indicating a well-structured and user-friendly procedure.

Application Fees:

Perception of fairness regarding the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge was also investigated. The findings were mixed, as shown in the table:

Although a majority thought the total application fee was fair, a significant proportion viewed the Immigration Health Surcharge as unfair, suggesting that the fee structure could be reviewed.

Employment and Salary Information:

Lastly, the study collected data on the employment status and salary range of the visa holders, providing insight into their professional life in the UK:

This data shows that the majority of Global Talent Visa holders are gainfully employed in roles that suit their skills and expertise, with a common salary range between £31,200 and £51,999.

This suggests that the visa is indeed facilitating opportunities for talented individuals in the UK.

The statistics on the Global Talent Visa sheds light on important considerations and lessons for further improvement. The findings suggest the need for adaptations and enhancements in various aspects of the process.

These include further publicity of the Global Talent visa route, improved guidance for applicants, adjustments to fees to ensure perceived fairness, and leveraging the pride and value that visa holders derive from being part of the Global Talent program.

By implementing these changes, the UK can strengthen the Global Talent Visa program and continue to attract exceptional talent in various fields.