Home Secretary announces more visas available for leading talents in the science and creative sectors
The Government announced today that it is doubling the number of visas available through the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) route from 1,000 to 2,000 a year.
Image credit: UK GovernmentThe 2,000 visas will be made available to individuals who are recognised as existing global leaders or promising future leaders in the digital technology, science, arts and creative sectors.
In announcing the change, Home Secretary Amber Rudd said:
"I am delighted that we are able to welcome more talented people from across the world to our country. Increasing the number of visas for these sectors will make sure that we continue to be at the heart of world culture and forefront of digital and scientific advances.
"The UK's innovative industries, including the thriving digital technology sector, are at the centre of our industrial strategy and making sure that businesses in these fields have access to exceptional talent from across the world is vitally important.
"That is why I will be meeting with technology experts to seek their input on making sure that our visa processes are as efficient as possible."
According to a press release on GOV.UK, the current allocation of 1,000 visas will remain split among the five endorsing organisations (Tech City UK, Arts Council England, The British Academy, The Royal Society, The Royal Academy of Engineering) and the additional 1,000 will be made available across all of the endorsing bodies dependent on need.
The press release added that the announcement is part of the Government's ongoing reforms to routes to the UK from outside the EU ahead of Brexit.