ILR Application (SWV + GTV) - A Few Questions Before I Apply

[Almina]

Dear all, I've been employed on a KTP project from early 2023. Initially I was on SW visa and then I got GTV UKRI endorsed funder route in November for 4 years. I've been given another offer elsewhere which I can start in 3 months. The offer is a permanent job with better salary so it makes sense for me to switch to this job. That would mean I'd have to leave my project.

Can I still get ILR when 3 years are up, given that I have payslips from my current job demonstrating that I earned money in the field of my talent for some time even though haven't finished the project due to which I got the endorsement in the first place.

In my endorsement application, I had mentioned a relatively broad field of talent that can cover my new job as well (I think - but I'd like to know even if it isn't covered). Please advise. Has anyone been through similar situation lately? Thank you very much.

[lolo2]

With a GTV you can do any job, even be self-employed, without telling UKVI or re-applying for a visa. Changing employers doesn't have any impact on future ILR applications.

As you rightly pointed out, one of the requirements is to demonstrate earnings in the specialist field at any time during your GT leave. Also ensure that your endorsement has not been withdrawn by the endorsing body at the time of the application for ILR.

[Almina]

With a GTV you can do any job, even be self-employed, without telling UKVI or re-applying for a visa. Changing employers doesn't have any impact on future ILR applications.

As you rightly pointed out, one of the requirements is to demonstrate earnings in the specialist field at any time during your GT leave. Also ensure that your endorsement has not been withdrawn by the endorsing body at the time of the application for ILR.

Can I please follow-up regarding the specialist field. While in my opinion the new job falls under what I wrote during the endorsement stage as the field of talent, say if for any reason they think the the new job doesn't fall under the specialist field. Can I only use the current job payslips and a requested letter from HR as the only proof of earnings in the specialist field. Apologies for the repetition but just wanting to cover all bases. Have there been similar cases where at the time of ILR application, the applicant was on a different field but only had proof from an earlier time during the same GT leave. Thank you very much.

[lolo2]

Have there been similar cases where at the time of ILR application, the applicant was on a different field but only had proof from an earlier time during the same GT leave

Yes, there are such cases. Use the search tool on this - and the ILR sub-forum - and you'll find cases of GTV holders who made successful ILR applications while working in a different or unrelated field to their endorsements.

Also it seems you've just started your immigration journey in the UK. Remember that these are the current rules, but the immigration rules in this country are constantly changing. There might be changes between now and the time you're eligible for ILR under this route, so keep that in mind.

[Almina]

Have there been similar cases where at the time of ILR application, the applicant was on a different field but only had proof from an earlier time during the same GT leave

Yes, there are such cases. Use the search tool on this - and the ILR sub-forum - and you'll find cases of GTV holders who made successful ILR applications while working in a different or unrelated field to their endorsements.

Also it seems you've just started your immigration journey in the UK. Remember that these are the current rules, but the immigration rules in this country are constantly changing. There might be changes between now and the time you're eligible for ILR under this route, so keep that in mind.

Many thanks for this useful answer. The other part is that the endorsing body should not have withdrawn their endorsement at the time of ILR application. I found one reddit answer where someone contacted UKRI about this and got the reply saying they usually don't withdraw. Is that the right assumption?

[lolo2]

It's rarely a good idea to assume things related to immigration, or in this case GT endorsements.

As commented, these rules are dynamic and constantly changing, but also there is no need to overthink about this. Again, with a GT visa you are free to work for any employer under the current circumstances.

[zimba]

See: There is no specific earning requirement for ILR under Global Talent Visa route

You should still remain endorsed by the body for ILR

[Almina]

See: There is no specific earning requirement for ILR under Global Talent Visa route

You should still remain endorsed by the body for ILR

Thank you for this. It's getting clearer to me.
I understand there is no evidence needed from the applicant to demonstrate 'still being endorsed by the body'. I'm also trying to understand what possible scenarios could potentially lead to their withdrawal? and for example leaving this job wouldn't constitute that reason.

[zimba]

See: There is no specific earning requirement for ILR under Global Talent Visa route

You should still remain endorsed by the body for ILR

Thank you for this. It's getting clearer to me.
I understand there is no evidence needed from the applicant to demonstrate 'still being endorsed by the body'. I'm also trying to understand what possible scenarios could potentially lead to their withdrawal? and for example leaving this job wouldn't constitute that reason.

Endorsement-related issues are not immigration issues per se. Endorsement is just a prerequisite for the grant of a visa or ILR under this route. Any question on how maintaining endorsement will work or how/why an endorsing body may withdraw it should be asked directly from an endorsing body, not on an immigration forum. The point is that you must still be endorsed by the body when you are applying for ILR and show you earned money in the respective field, that's all from the immigration point of view

[Max777]

I sent the email to UKRi on the same issue, since I am in the similar situation, I started KTP few months ago, I am also thinking to switch jobs.
I sent the email to UKRI to confirm the affect on the endorsement incase if I leave the project on the basis of which I was endorsed.
They have sent this reply

Thank you for your email.
My understanding is that changing jobs will not have an impact on your endorsement/visa status.
Hope this is helpful and we wish you success in your future endeavours.

With regards to ILR confirmation, I tried to contact home office but they have so many helplines for different purposes. I have sent an email to a home office address, I will update the thread when I hear back from them.

[zimba]

UKVI helpline is manned by third parties so there is no official immigration advice, you should not rely on the advice given. ILR requirements are quite clearly defined under the rules. There are no specific job requirements

I suggest reading the official guide: https://www.gov.uk/government/publicati ... -w-workers

[SuSan85]

I am also in the exact same position. I secured post doctoral research associate position, secured GTV under fast track endorsement.The position is for 2.5 years (contract), I also have similar questions.

What if I switch to another job?

I already finished 3 months and got 3 months salary slips.
But I received UkRI endorsement for getting this position, as uni submitted statement of guarantee and it shows clearly it’s 30 month contract. So if I switch to other job, will my endorsement be withdrawn?

Am I still eligible to apply to ILR after 33 months, if I switch my job right now and opt other job , provided I have 3 months pay slips in the designated field for which I have got my endorsement.

When UKRI endorsement is withdrawn? In what cases ?

[zimba]

I am also in the exact same position. I secured post doctoral research associate position, secured GTV under fast track endorsement.The position is for 2.5 years (contract), I also have similar questions.

What if I switch to another job?

I already finished 3 months and got 3 months salary slips.
But I received UkRI endorsement for getting this position, as uni submitted statement of guarantee and it shows clearly it’s 30 month contract. So if I switch to other job, will my endorsement be withdrawn?

Am I still eligible to apply to ILR after 33 months, if I switch my job right now and opt other job , provided I have 3 months pay slips in the designated field for which I have got my endorsement.

When UKRI endorsement is withdrawn? In what cases ?

This has been answered now multiple times that there is no job requirement for ILR under this route, so this has NOTHING to do with your eligibility for ILR. You simply need to show that you have earned money in your field and you should remain endorsed by your endorsing body. To know if you are still endorsed, you need to communicate with your endorsing body and as repeated before, this is not an immigration-related issue.

[tantan1051]

I sent the email to UKRi on the same issue, since I am in the similar situation, I started KTP few months ago, I am also thinking to switch jobs.
I sent the email to UKRI to confirm the affect on the endorsement incase if I leave the project on the basis of which I was endorsed.
They have sent this reply

Thank you for your email.
My understanding is that changing jobs will not have an impact on your endorsement/visa status.
Hope this is helpful and we wish you success in your future endeavours.

I am in the exact same situation Max777. I have received the endorsement and I'm waiting for my visa appointment to submit my biometrics. The work environment in my KTP isn't great and borderline dearly beloved, which is why I am trying to switch jobs. UKRI hasn't replied to my email asking about the conditions in which they withdraw their endorsement as my end goal is to get an ILR.
My only concern is: what happens if the base company cancels the KTP after I leave? They usually find a replacement KTP associate and the project goes on without any hinderance. But what if they cancel the funding, is it possible they withdraw their endorsement then?

[Almina]

Subject: ILR Application (SWV + GTV) — A Few Questions Before I Apply

Dear Experts and Members,

I’m preparing to submit my ILR application under the SWV + GTV 3-year route and would really appreciate some advice on a few points. The application is nearly complete, but I want to make sure I’ve interpreted everything correctly.

Background:
• Came to the UK in mid-2018 on a Student visa (PhD)
• Switched to Skilled Worker visa from within the UK; approval received on 15 Nov 2022, for a KTP job starting late Dec 2022
• Received Global Talent endorsement based on the KTP role and switched to GTV in Nov 2023
• Worked in the KTP role until March 2024
• Now applying for ILR based on 3 years of being on SWV + GTV route

1. “When did you first enter the UK?” — What should I put?
Should I enter the date I first arrived in 2018 on a Student visa, or the date I received my Skilled Worker visa (15 Nov 2022)? I’m using the latter as the start of my 3-year continuous period — is that correct?

2. GTV employment question: “How is your employment or self-employment in the UK related to your specialist field or the prize you have won?”
I left my KTP job (which was directly related to my endorsed field) in March 2024. This question appears in the ILR form — is it asking about current employment only, or can I refer to that past job where I was clearly working in the endorsed field? My current job is somewhat related, and I can explain the link, but would like to know how best to approach this.

3. Do I need to mention my time on the Student visa?
Since I’m applying based on SWV+GTV from Nov 2022, do I need to include the earlier Student visa period anywhere? There doesn’t seem to be a section that specifically asks for visa history before the qualifying period.

4. 28-day rule — when can I apply?
If my continuous period started on 15 Nov 2022, is 18 Oct 2025 the earliest I can apply under the 28-day rule?

5. Consent form — which one should I use?
I’m applying alone (no dependents). I saw a link to the consent form earlier in the application but can’t get back to it now. Which version should I upload?

6. Do I need to list airport transits?
Some of my travel included flight transfers where I stayed within the airport and didn’t pass through immigration. Do I need to include these in the travel history section?

7. Can I use “Doctor” as a title?
I completed a UK PhD, but none of my official documents (passport, BRP) include the title “Dr.” Can I still use it in the personal details section, or should I leave it as Mr?

8. Can I skip the national ID card section?
I have a national ID card but is it okay to leave that part blank, or is it required?

Thanks in advance for your guidance — it’s much appreciated!

[zimba]

1. This has been answered many many times before. That question on the form has no relevance to the qualifying period calculation. This is NOT a trick question, answer what is asked which is the date you first entered the UK.

2. This is a question for you to answer as per your circumstances

3. No. Irrelevant

4. All you need to know about applying early, the application date, 28-day concession and more

5. There is only one consent form and it has 3 parts. You only need to sign part 1

6. No. UKVI has no interest in the details of your travels, etc

7. You can use any title

8. Yes. You are not required to provide nay such document

[Almina]

1. This has been answered many many times before. That question on the form has no relevance to the qualifying period calculation. This is NOT a trick question, answer what is asked which is the date you first entered the UK.

2. This is a question for you to answer as per your circumstances

3. No. Irrelevant

4. All you need to know about applying early, the application date, 28-day concession and more

5. There is only one consent form and it has 3 parts. You only need to sign part 1

6. No. UKVI has no interest in the details of your travels, etc

7. You can use any title

8. Yes. You are not required to provide nay such document

Thank you for taking the time to respond — I really appreciate your help in clarifying these points Zimba!, now and in the past. Lots of love for you .

I just have a quick follow-up on point 2 regarding the GTV question:
“How is your employment or self-employment in the UK related to your specialist field or the prize you have won?”

I understand it’s for me to answer based on my circumstances, but I’d be grateful if you (or anyone else here) could confirm whether UKVI expects this to refer specifically to current employment at the time of ILR application, or if past employment during the qualifying period (e.g. my KTP role, which was directly related to my endorsed field) is acceptable to mention here.

My current role is only loosely related, so I want to be sure I’m framing this correctly in the application.

Thanks again!

[zimba]

See: There is no specific earning requirement for ILR under Global Talent Visa route

You should still remain endorsed by the body for ILR

If you read the advice I have given in the past, you can see the rules do not mention any such details. They only require you to have earned money in your expert field during your last period of leave to remain.

To extend your Global Talent permission or apply for settlement you must show us evidence that you have earned money in the UK linked to your expert field, during your most recent grant of Global Talent leave. There is no minimum level of earnings needed for this.

The Immigration Rules do not specify which documents you should show us. Below are some examples of evidence that may be acceptable. It is not exhaustive: if you have evidence from an independent source which can be verified, a caseworker may accept this as an alternative.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publicati ... pplication

[Almina]

See: There is no specific earning requirement for ILR under Global Talent Visa route

You should still remain endorsed by the body for ILR

If you read the advice I have given in the past, you can see the rules do not mention any such details. They only require you to have earned money in your expert field during your last period of leave to remain.

To extend your Global Talent permission or apply for settlement you must show us evidence that you have earned money in the UK linked to your expert field, during your most recent grant of Global Talent leave. There is no minimum level of earnings needed for this.

The Immigration Rules do not specify which documents you should show us. Below are some examples of evidence that may be acceptable. It is not exhaustive: if you have evidence from an independent source which can be verified, a caseworker may accept this as an alternative.

https://www.gov.uk/government/publicati ... pplication

Thank you very much Zimba. Really appreciate your patience and guidance.