Europe – United Kingdom Visa – Work – Secondment Worker Visa

1. What is the purpose of a Secondment Worker Visa?

The purpose of a Secondment Worker Visa is to allow foreign nationals to work temporarily in another country as part of an intra-company transfer. This visa is usually used when an employee of a company is transferred from their home country to a different branch or office of the same company in another country.

2. Who can apply for a Secondment Worker Visa?
Employees who are being seconded by their company, typically in managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge roles, can apply for a Secondment Worker Visa. The employee must have been working for the company for a certain period of time and must be employed by the overseas branch or entity on a continuous basis during their stay in the other country.

3. How long does a Secondment Worker Visa last?
The duration of a Secondment Worker Visa varies depending on the country and the specific circumstances of the worker’s assignment. In most cases, it ranges from six months to five years. However, some countries may have specific restrictions on how long a worker can stay on this type of visa.

4. What are the requirements for obtaining a Secondment Worker Visa?
The requirements for obtaining a Secondment Worker Visa vary depending on the country where it is being applied for. Generally, applicants will need to provide documentation such as:

– Valid passport
– Proof of employment with the company
– Employment contract between the home and host companies
– Educational certificates or proof of qualifications
– Evidence that adequate accommodation will be provided during their stay
– Proof of sufficient funds to support themselves while abroad
– Medical insurance coverage
– Travel itinerary

Additional documents may also be required by some countries, such as criminal background checks or proof of language proficiency.

5. Can family members accompany a person on a Secondment Worker Visa?
Some countries allow family members (spouses and dependent children) to accompany the person holding a Secondment Worker Visa under certain conditions. Family members will usually need to apply for a dependent visa and may be required to show proof of their relationship with the visa holder, as well as provide additional documentation such as medical insurance and proof of financial support.

6. Can a Secondment Worker Visa be extended?
In some cases, individuals on a Secondment Worker visa can apply for an extension if they need to stay in the country for longer than originally planned. The exact procedures and requirements for obtaining an extension vary depending on the country. It is important to check with the respective country’s immigration authorities for specific guidelines.

7. Can a person change employers while on a Secondment Worker Visa?
No, a Secondment Worker Visa is tied to the specific company that is sponsoring the employee and cannot be transferred to another employer. If the worker wishes to change employers, they will need to apply for a new work visa with their new company.

8. Is it possible to switch from a Secondment Worker Visa to another type of work visa?
This depends on the specific immigration laws and regulations of the host country. In some cases, it may be possible to switch from a Secondment Worker Visa to another type of work visa if certain conditions are met, such as having an employer sponsor or meeting eligibility criteria for the new visa category. It is important to check with the relevant immigration authorities for information on potential options for changing visas.

2. Who is eligible to apply for a Secondment Worker Visa?


Secondment Worker Visas are available to individuals who are being temporarily transferred from a company overseas to work in Australia, either for the same employer or a related entity. This visa is not available for freelancers or independent contractors. Individuals must have specialized knowledge or be filling an executive, managerial, or specialist role within the company. They must also have worked for the company overseas for at least 12 months prior to the transfer.

3. Can I switch to a Secondment Worker Visa from a different visa category?


Yes, it is possible to switch to a Secondment Worker Visa from a different visa category. You will need to meet the eligibility requirements for the Secondment Worker Visa and submit a valid application. The specific requirements and process may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the country you are applying from. It is recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or contact the relevant government agency for further information on how to switch visas.

4. How long does a Secondment Worker Visa last?


The length of a Secondment Worker Visa depends on the specific terms and conditions of the secondment agreement between the employer and employee. Typically, these visas can last for 1-2 years or longer, depending on the length of the secondment period. The visa may be extended if the secondment is extended by both parties.

5. Do I need to have a job offer before applying for this visa?


Yes, you must have a valid job offer from an employer in Canada before you can apply for a work permit under this visa. The job offer must be approved by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and provide proof that the employer has made efforts to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents for the position and that hiring a foreign worker is necessary.

6. What documents do I need to provide for a Secondment Worker Visa application?


Some of the documents that you may need to provide for a Secondment Worker Visa application include:

1. A valid passport or travel document.

2. A completed visa application form.

3. A letter of invitation from the company in the host country, explaining the purpose and duration of the secondment.

4. Employment contract or letter from your current employer confirming your employment and salary details.

5. Proof of qualifications and skills relevant to your job.

6. Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in the host country.

7. Medical insurance valid for the entire duration of your stay.

8. Police clearance certificate or other character references.

9. Proof of ties to your home country, such as property ownership, family members, or assets, to show your intention to return after the secondment ends.

10. Any other documents requested by the embassy or consulate processing your visa application.

7. Is there an English language requirement for this visa?


Yes, there is an English language requirement for this visa. Applicants must be able to demonstrate a sufficient level of English language proficiency in order to be eligible for the visa. This is typically done through providing evidence of completing an approved English language test, such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). The specific score requirements may vary depending on the type of visa and the country of origin of the applicant.

8. Will I be able to bring my dependents with me on this visa?

As a general rule, dependent family members are usually allowed to join the primary visa holder on their particular type of visa. However, this may vary depending on the specific visa and country’s immigration laws. It is best to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for more information about bringing dependents with you on your particular visa.

9. Can I extend my stay on a Secondment Worker Visa?


No, a Secondment Worker Visa is only valid for the specific period of time stated on the visa. If you wish to stay longer, you will need to apply for an extension or a different type of visa before your current visa expires.

10. Am I allowed to work part-time or freelance on this visa?


As a B1/B2 visa is for temporary business or tourism purposes, it does not allow the holder to work in any capacity. Employment, including freelance or part-time work, is strictly prohibited on this visa. If you wish to work in the United States, you will need to apply for and obtain a different type of work visa that permits employment.

11. Is there a minimum salary requirement for a Secondment Worker Visa?


Yes, there is a minimum salary requirement for a Secondment Worker Visa. The current minimum salary for this visa category is £30,000 per year. However, this can vary depending on the job role and industry. The employer must also provide proof that the salary meets the minimum requirement set by the Home Office. It is important to note that the salary requirement may change from time to time, so it is best to consult with an immigration advisor for updated information.

12. Will I be subject to any immigration health surcharge or public healthcare fees in the UK while on this visa?


Yes, as a non-EEA national applying for a Tier 2 General visa, you will be required to pay the immigration health surcharge. This is currently set at £400 per year and will need to be paid upfront for the duration of your visa. This fee allows you to access the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK during your stay.

In addition, you may also be subject to other public healthcare fees, such as prescription charges or dental charges, depending on your personal circumstances and whether or not you are exempt from these fees. It is important to research and be aware of these potential costs before moving to the UK on a Tier 2 General visa.

13. Can my employer sponsor me for this visa if they are not based in the UK?


No, the Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme visa requires sponsorship from a UK organization. Your employer must be based in the UK and hold a sponsor license issued by the UK government. Additionally, you will need to have a job offer from this employer before applying for the visa.

14. Do I need travel insurance for this visa?


While travel insurance is not a requirement for obtaining this visa, it is highly recommended. It can provide helpful coverage in case of emergencies or unexpected events such as trip cancellations, lost baggage, medical emergencies abroad, and more. It is always wise to have travel insurance when traveling internationally to protect yourself and your belongings.

15. Are there any restrictions on which activities I can engage in while on this visa?

Yes, there will be restrictions on your activities based on the type of visa you hold. For example, if you have a tourist visa, you may not be allowed to work or engage in business activities. If you have a student visa, you may be restricted to only participating in studies and internships related to your field of study. It is important to understand and comply with these restrictions to avoid any violations of your visa terms.

16. How soon can I apply for permanent residence after being on a Secondment Worker Visa?


The Secondment Worker Visa is a temporary visa and does not lead directly to permanent residence. However, if you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply for permanent residence through other immigration programs, such as the Canadian Experience Class or the Provincial Nominee Program. The timing of your application will depend on your individual circumstances and when you meet the eligibility criteria for these programs. It is recommended that you consult with an immigration lawyer or consultant for specific advice on when to apply for permanent residence.

17. Will I be able to apply for British citizenship while on this visa?

Yes, it is possible to apply for British citizenship while on this visa. However, you must meet all the requirements for naturalization, including having lived in the UK for at least five years (or three years if married to a British citizen) and passing the Life in the UK test. You must also not have spent more than 450 days outside of the UK during your five-year residency period. Additionally, your indefinite leave to remain status (or permanent residence under EU law) must not have been revoked or invalidated. It is recommended that you seek legal advice from an immigration solicitor before applying for British citizenship while on this visa.

18.Can my family members in the UK sponsor me for this visa?

No, your family members in the UK cannot sponsor you for this visa. The Youth Mobility Scheme is designed for young adults to have the opportunity to live and work in the UK, not for family reunification. However, they can provide a letter of support or invitation to enhance your application.

19.What happens if my employment ends while on a Secondment Worker Visa?

If your employment ends while you are on a Secondment Worker Visa, you must leave the country within 30 days if you do not have another valid visa. You may also apply for a change of status to another visa category if you meet the eligibility requirements. If you do not leave the country or apply for a change of status, you may be subject to deportation and future immigration restrictions.

20.Is there an age limit for applying for this visa?

Both Australian permanent residency and citizenship visas have age limits for application. Generally, you must be under the age of 45 to apply for a permanent residency visa, with the exception of certain skilled visas which have an upper age limit of 50 or 55. There is no age limit for Australian citizenship applications. However, applicants over the age of 60 must meet different eligibility requirements.