The Service Supplier Visa allows overseas professionals to provide specialist services in the UK under international trade agreements. Whether you’re an employee of an overseas company or a self-employed professional, this visa opens opportunities but the application process can be complex.
This guide breaks it down step by step, helping you understand eligibility, documentation, and tips to make your application successful.
Work in UK on Service Supplier Visa:
A service supplier visa allows employees of foreign companies to enter the UK and provide contracted services to a UK-based client. It is ideal for professionals in consulting, IT, engineering, and other specialized sectors.
UK Work Permits for International Service Providers:
International service providers must obtain UK work permits to work legally. The service supplier visa acts as a permit for temporary, company-sponsored work assignments in the UK.
Temporary Work Visa UK for Service Professionals:
The service supplier visa is typically granted for short-term assignments, enabling professionals to work in the UK temporarily while remaining employed by their overseas company.
Work Legally in UK:
Holding a service supplier visa allows you to work legally in the UK without switching to a skilled worker visa, provided you remain on a qualifying assignment and comply with UK immigration rules.
Career Opportunities:
This visa opens opportunities in sectors such as:
- IT consulting and support
- Engineering and technical services
- Business and management consultancy
- Financial and professional services
Check Also: Healthcare in UK for Spouse Visa Holders
UK Immigration Rules for Service Providers:
Service providers must follow UK immigration rules, including:
- Visa duration limits
- Restrictions on switching employers
- Reporting obligations and documentation requirements
Service Supplier Visa vs Skilled Worker Visa UK:
- Service Supplier Visa: Temporary, tied to overseas employment, suitable for contract-based work.
- Skilled Worker Visa: Long-term, tied to UK employment, allows direct career progression and potential settlement.
UK Employment Opportunities for Service Suppliers:
Employers seeking short-term international expertise offer roles that match your professional skills. Common sectors include IT, engineering, consulting, and corporate services.
English Proficiency Requirements for UK Service Visas:
Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency, usually through recognized language tests or evidence of working in English-speaking environments. This ensures effective communication with UK clients.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, confirm you meet the key criteria. There are two main categories:
1. Contractual Service Suppliers
- Employees of an overseas company delivering services under a UK contract.
- Must have at least 12 months of overseas employment with your current employer.
2. Independent Professionals
- Self-employed individuals contracting directly with a UK business.
- Must have been established in your field for at least 12 months.
Other eligibility requirements:
- Aged 18 or older.
- National of a country with an eligible UK trade agreement.
- Hold relevant qualifications and experience (typically a degree + 3 years for employees, or 6 years for self-employed).
- No serious criminal convictions or immigration violations.
Pro tip: Confirm your eligibility with the official UK Government guidance before starting the application to avoid wasted time.
Step 2: Secure a Valid Service Contract
A valid service contract with a UK business is central to your application. The contract must:
- Be with a licensed UK sponsor.
- Cover services recognized under an international trade agreement (examples include IT consultancy, engineering, or management advisory work).
- Be registered with the Home Office by the UK sponsor.
Pro tip: Ensure your contract clearly aligns with the trade agreement requirements. Your UK sponsor is responsible for confirming compliance.
Step 3: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Once your contract is approved, the UK sponsor issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This electronic document confirms:
- Your personal and employment details.
- Your role and the services you’ll provide.
- Evidence of your 12-month overseas work history.
- Whether the sponsor certifies maintenance (financial support) in the UK.
Important: You must apply for your visa within three months of the CoS issue date. Applications after this period are invalid.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Preparing the right documents is crucial. You’ll need:
- Identity documents: Passport and previous UK visa records.
- Sponsorship details: CoS reference number.
- Professional evidence: Qualifications and proof of relevant experience.
- Work history: Employment contracts, payslips, or invoices showing 12 months’ overseas work.
- Financial evidence: Bank statements showing at least £1,270 unless your sponsor certifies maintenance.
- Family documents (if applicable): Marriage certificate, birth certificates, and financial proof for dependants.
Common mistakes to avoid: Missing translations, incomplete financial records, or insufficient proof of work history.
Step 5: Complete the Online Application
Submit your application through the official UKVI portal. You’ll need to:
- Enter your personal details exactly as in your passport.
- Provide the CoS reference number.
- Answer questions about your employment, qualifications, and immigration background.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
Pro tip: Small errors like typos or incorrect dates can cause delays—double-check everything before submitting.
Step 6: Pay Fees and Immigration Health Surcharge
- Visa application fee: £319 per person.
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year (same for dependants).
Optional priority services:
- Priority: Decision within 5 working days (+£500).
- Super Priority: Decision by the next working day (+£1,000).
Tip: Only use priority services if your application is fully complete to avoid rejected priority applications.
Step 7: Attend Your Biometric Appointment
Most applicants must provide fingerprints and a digital photograph at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- Bring your passport and original documents as requested by UKVI.
- Book early to avoid delays, especially during busy periods.
Step 8: Wait for Your Visa Decision
- Processing usually takes around 3 weeks, but may be longer if UKVI requests additional information.
- Complete and accurate documentation reduces delays.
Step 9: After Your Visa Is Granted
Once approved, you can stay in the UK for up to six or twelve months (depending on your contract and trade agreement). Key conditions include:
- Work only under the approved contract and role.
- No access to public funds.
- Dependants can work and study but cannot claim benefits.
- The visa is temporary and does not count towards settlement, though you can reapply if eligible.
Quick tip: Keep a checklist of your responsibilities to stay compliant with Home Office rules.
Tips:
- Double-check your CoS and contract to ensure they meet trade agreement rules.
- Prepare translations for any non-English documents.
- Keep digital and physical copies of all documents.
- Book biometric appointments early, especially if your contract start date is soon.
Conclusion:
The Service Supplier Visa enables overseas professionals to provide specialist services in the UK under trade agreements, with clear steps from eligibility to post-approval compliance. Careful preparation of contracts, documents, and accurate applications is essential to avoid delays or refusals. With the right guidance and attention to detail, applicants can navigate the process smoothly and maximize their chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a Service Supplier Visa?
It allows overseas professionals to provide specialist services in the UK under international trade agreements, either as employees of overseas companies or self-employed contractors.
How long can I stay in the UK on this visa?
Visa duration is typically up to six or twelve months, depending on the trade agreement and contract. It is temporary and does not count toward settlement.
Who is eligible for this visa?
Eligibility includes contractual service suppliers with at least 12 months’ overseas employment, independent professionals with 12 months’ experience, nationals of eligible trade agreement countries, and meeting qualifications and suitability requirements.