A UK immigration pathway for leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, and digital technology. This route accommodates researchers ...
Documents and information you'll need for your relocation application
Official Application Fee
$805.0 (charged later)
Government processing fee, charged when application is ready for submission
Valid passport with 6+ months validity
You must submit a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiry at the date of planned entry to the UK.
Endorsement by recognized research body or approved fellowship
Applicants must be endorsed by an approved endorsing body (e.g., UK Research and Innovation, Royal Society, British Academy) or hold an eligible, approved research fellowship or grant. Specific fast-track criteria apply if you are named on a UKRI grant or hold a qualifying fellowship.
Bachelor's degree or higher
You must provide evidence of a completed degree at bachelor's level or above, relevant to research field.
Proof of funds: $2,000 USD (or equivalent for 28 days if not UK-based for 12+ months)
Personal savings or maintenance funds held for 28 consecutive days prior to application if not already residing in the UK for at least 12 months. Amount is roughly $2,000 USD (subject to exact Home Office conversion).
IELTS score of 6.0 (CEFR Level B2) or equivalent
Evidence of English language proficiency at B2 (upper-intermediate) level as assessed through IELTS (minimum score 6.0 overall) or equivalent recognized test.
Police clearance certificate
Criminal background check from any country of residence for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Required for suitability assessment.
Medical examination by approved physician
Tuberculosis (TB) test results are required for applicants from countries on the designated Home Office list. Must be performed by a Home Office approved clinic.
Eligible institutional affiliation or job offer at approved research organization
Employment (paid or unpaid) at an approved UK research institution, or a formal job offer for a qualifying research post. Fast-track possible if at approved institution. Submits proof of affiliation or job offer.
Peer review endorsement as a research leader or emerging leader
If you lack institutional affiliation or major fellowship, you may submit a detailed application for endorsement by peer review, evidencing research excellence, impact, and standing in your field.
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💡 Two-Stage Payment: Pay only the service fee now. Official fee charged later.