Global Talent Endorsement: How It Works 2026
What you need to know
- •Endorsement is required before you can apply for the visa.
- •Different endorsing bodies for different fields.
- •You have 3 months after endorsement to apply for the visa.
- •Endorsement fee is £524 (non-refundable).
Global Talent endorsement is a two-stage application. First, you apply to an endorsing body who assesses your evidence. If endorsed, you then apply for the visa. This guide covers all endorsing bodies, evidence requirements, and the timeline.
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
The Two-Stage Process
The Global Talent visa uses a two-stage application:
- Stage 1: Endorsement. You apply to an approved endorsing body with evidence of your talent.
- Stage 2: Visa application. After endorsement, you apply for the visa through GOV.UK.
Endorsing Bodies
Each endorsing body covers specific fields:
- Tech Nation: Digital technology
- The Royal Society: Natural sciences, medical sciences, mathematics, and engineering (research)
- The Royal Academy of Engineering: Engineering
- The British Academy: Humanities and social sciences
- Arts Council England: Arts and culture
- UK Research and Innovation (UKRI): Research and innovation (with eligible fellowship or grant)
Some applicants with a UKRI-funded fellowship or grant may be eligible for endorsement without going through the standard process. Check the requirements guide for details.
Evidence You Need
While each endorsing body has specific criteria, common evidence includes:
- A detailed CV or portfolio
- Letters of recommendation from established leaders in your field
- Evidence of significant contribution (publications, patents, awards, performances)
- Press coverage and media recognition
- Evidence of impact on the field
- A personal statement explaining your achievements and UK plans
Processing Times
Processing times vary by endorsing body:
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
- Tech Nation: approximately 5-8 weeks
- Royal Society: approximately 6-8 weeks
- Arts Council England: approximately 8 weeks
- Others: typically 6-8 weeks
After endorsement, you have 3 months to apply for the visa.
Costs
The endorsement application fee is £524 (non-refundable). The visa fee and IHS are paid separately at the visa stage. See the Global Talent cost guide.
If Endorsement Is Refused
If your endorsement application is refused:
- You can request an administrative review if you believe the decision was incorrect
- You can reapply with stronger evidence
- Consider whether an alternative route (such as the Skilled Worker visa) may be more appropriate
After Endorsement
Once endorsed, apply for the visa, bring dependants, and plan your move to the UK. The visa allows you to work without a sponsor, change employers freely, and eventually apply for ILR.
Next Steps
Identify the right endorsing body for your field and prepare your evidence. Apply through GOV.UK.
Related guides:
This guide is general immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
Related guides
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.