The High Potential Individual visa was introduced on 30 May 2022. The aim is to attract highly educated individuals who have graduated from leading internationally recognised universities to come and live in the UK, by allowing them to seek employment opportunities including self-employment (not as a professional sportsperson or coach), volunteer, or to study (not if the course is eligible for a student visa), and thereafter to switch into another immigration category and thereby contribute to the UK economy.
The introduction of the High Potential individual visa is also a recognition of the international ‘war on talent’ globally and seeks to place the UK at the forefront of competitiveness by looking to ‘attract and retain the best and brightest.’ The High Potential Individual visa complements other visa categories within the points-based route with the UK looking to introduce more visa routes.
The High Potential Individual visa allows an applicant to bring their dependent partner and children under 18 to the UK.
The High Potential Individual visa cannot be extended, and an individual cannot apply through this route if they have been granted either a:
- graduate visa
- Student Doctorate extension
- have already held the High Potential Individual visa.
The High Potential Individual visa is an attractive visa option given an applicant does not require sponsorship from a third party, are able to work freely, bring family members’ and provides them with opportunities to extend their stay and further their careers.
An application which is declined, can be reviewed through the Administrative Review process or by way of judicial review but with the latter only in rare cases.
If you are looking to come to the UK through the High Potential visa route and require assistance with yours and of course your dependants’ visa application’s, please contact us and one of the immigration team will contact you to discuss your case further.
Please click on the links below for further information on the High Potential visa.
