When does a UK Scale-Up Visa holder become free from employer sponsorship?

After working for their sponsoring Scale-Up employer for at least 6 months, a Scale-Up Visa holder becomes completely unsponsored. They can switch employers, change roles, or be self-employed without needing a new visa sponsor.

What is the minimum salary threshold for the UK Scale-Up Visa?

The minimum salary threshold for the UK Scale-Up Visa is £36,300 per year (or the SOC going rate for the job, whichever is higher).

When does a UK Scale-Up Visa holder become free from employer sponsorship?

After working for their sponsoring Scale-Up employer for at least 6 months, a Scale-Up Visa holder becomes completely unsponsored. They can switch employers, change roles, or be self-employed without needing a new visa sponsor.

What is the minimum salary threshold for the UK Scale-Up Visa?

The minimum salary threshold for the UK Scale-Up Visa is £36,300 per year (or the SOC going rate for the job, whichever is higher).

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Home Office Scale-Up Visa Rules 2025/2026

UK Scale-Up Visa & 6-Month Freedom Calculator

Evaluate £36,300 salary threshold, RQF Level 6 skill, 6-month sponsorship freedom, and 5-year ILR settlement route.

⚡ Statutory Scale-Up Visa Key Rules (2025/2026):

• Salary Threshold: £36,300 / year (or SOC going rate, whichever is higher).
• 6-Month Sponsorship Freedom: Must work for sponsor for 6 months, after which you are 100% unsponsored and free to work for any employer!
• Initial Duration: Granted for 2 Years (extendable for 3 years without a sponsor).
• ILR Path: Direct 5-Year Settlement Route to Indefinite Leave to Remain.

Scale-Up Route Evaluator

GOV.UK VerifiedOfficial UK Government References & Legal Sources

• GOV.UK Scale-Up Worker Visa Overview: gov.uk/scale-up-worker-visa
• Home Office Immigration Rules Appendix Scale-Up: gov.uk/appendix-scale-up

Scale-Up Benchmarks

Salary Threshold£36,300 / yr

Sponsorship Duration6 Months Only!

ILR Path5 Years