UK Expansion Worker vs UK Skilled Worker Routes for Swiss Nationals

For Swiss nationals, understanding the recent changes to the UK Immigration Rules is crucial, especially if you’re considering expanding your business into the UK or seeking employment there. Following the closure of the Sole Representative route, Swiss businesses and professionals now need to explore the Global Business Mobility (“GBM”): UK Expansion Worker route or the Skilled Worker route. This guide provides Swiss nationals with a detailed comparison of these two key UK visa options.

Do Both the UK Expansion Worker and Skilled Worker Routes Require Sponsorship?

Yes, both routes require sponsorship, which is essential for citizens of Switzerland wishing to work in the UK.

For the Skilled Worker route, a UK-based employer seeking to employ a Swiss passport holder must hold an A-rated Skilled Worker sponsor licence.

For the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route, the UK sponsor must hold a GBM: UK Expansion Worker sponsor licence. This licence can either have an A-rating or a provisional A-rating, depending on whether there is already a worker based in the UK.

How Does Sponsorship Work in Practice for Swiss Applicants?

To secure a sponsor licence, businesses must appoint Key Personnel, typically based in the UK.

For Swiss businesses, this can be a challenge, especially when there is no presence in the UK. The GBM: UK Expansion Worker licence offers flexibility by allowing a senior employee of the Swiss business to act as the Authorising Officer, even if they are not yet based in the UK.

For Swiss applicants under the Skilled Worker route, the Key Personnel roles cannot be filled by sponsored workers, unlike the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route, where the Authorising Officer can also serve as the Level 1 User and Key Contact.

What About Certificates of Sponsorship for Swiss Nationals?

Swiss nationals applying under the Skilled Worker route can benefit from an unlimited number of sponsorships. In contrast, the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route limits sponsorship to a maximum of five workers essential for establishing the business in the UK. Initially, only one Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is granted if the Authorising Officer, a senior Swiss employee, is not yet in the UK.

Can UK Expansion Worker and Skilled Worker Applicants from Switzerland Make an In-Country Switch?

Yes, Swiss nationals can switch to either the UK Expansion Worker or Skilled Worker route from within the UK, provided they are not currently in certain visa categories such as Visitor or Short-term Student. This flexibility is important for Swiss passport holders already in the UK on a different visa.

Does the Applicant Need to Show Previous Work for the Company?

For the Skilled Worker route, there is no requirement for Swiss applicants to have previously worked for the sponsoring company. However, under the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route, Swiss nationals must have worked for the overseas Swiss business for at least 12 months prior to applying, unless they qualify as high earners with a salary of at least £73,900 per annum.

Are There Minimum Skill and Salary Levels for Swiss Citizens?

Yes, both routes have specific skill and salary requirements. Swiss citizens applying under the Skilled Worker route must meet a minimum salary of £38,700 per annum or the going rate for the role. For the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route, Swiss nationals must earn at least £48,500 per annum or the role’s going rate.

Do Swiss Applicants Need to Meet an English Language Requirement?

Swiss citizens applying under the Skilled Worker route must demonstrate English proficiency at CEFR Level B1. However, there is no English language requirement for Swiss nationals applying under the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route.

Is There a Financial Requirement for Applicants from Switzerland?

Yes, both routes have financial requirements. Swiss passport holders applying for entry clearance or those who have been in the UK for less than 12 months must demonstrate that they meet this requirement. Swiss sponsors with an A-rated licence can certify the maintenance of their employees under the Skilled Worker route.

Do the UK Expansion Worker and Skilled Worker Routes Lead to Settlement in the UK for Swiss Nationals?

The Skilled Worker route offers a pathway to settlement after five years of continuous residence, making it a key option for Swiss citizens planning a long-term stay in the UK. However, the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route does not lead to settlement, which might be less appealing for Swiss nationals seeking permanent residency.

Can Swiss Citizens Bring Their Dependants?

Both routes allow Swiss citizens and Swiss nationals to bring dependants, including partners and children under 18, making them attractive options for Swiss families.

Is the UK Expansion Worker or Skilled Worker Visa Better for Swiss Passport Holders?

For Swiss citizens seeking a long-term career and potential settlement in the UK, the Skilled Worker route is preferable. However, for Swiss businesses aiming to establish a presence in the UK, the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route provides the necessary flexibility. Once the business is established, it can transition to the Skilled Worker route to sponsor employees for the long term. Swiss nationals initially on the GBM: UK Expansion Worker route can also switch to the Skilled Worker route from within the UK.

Contact Our UK Immigration Lawyers for Swiss Nationals

For tailored advice and assistance on applying for or managing a sponsor licence under the UK Expansion Worker or Skilled Worker route, Swiss citizens can contact our immigration lawyers in Switzerland on +41 21 588 07 70 or through our online contact form.