UK Scale-Up Visa vs HPI Visa Comparison 2026
Compare the UK Scale-Up Worker and High Potential Individual (HPI) visa routes: job offer requirements, £39,100 salary rules, university eligibility, fees, and 5-year ILR settlement pathways.
Scale-Up Worker applications assigned on/after 22 July 2025 require a salary of at least £39,100/yr or the occupation going rate. HPI requires a degree from the official Global Universities List for your award year.
Scale-Up Worker vs HPI Visa Comparison Table
| Feature | Scale-Up Worker Visa | High Potential Individual (HPI) |
|---|---|---|
| Job Offer Required | Yes (Initial sponsored job) | No Job Offer Required |
| Employer Sponsorship | Required for initial 6 months | Unsponsored Route |
| Salary Requirement | £39,100 / yr or going rate (whichever is higher) | No Minimum Salary |
| Degree Requirement | No specific global degree test | Eligible overseas degree from Global Universities List |
| Visa Duration | 2 Years initial (extendable) | 2 Years (3 Years for PhD) |
| Work Flexibility | Must work 6 mos in sponsored job; then full freedom | Full work, job-seeking & self-employment from Day 1 |
| 5-Year ILR Settlement | Yes (Leads to 5-yr Settlement) | No (Does not count directly to 5-yr ILR) |
| Application Fee (2026) | £937 | £880 |
| Healthcare Surcharge (IHS) | £1,035 / year | £1,035 / year |
Scale-Up Worker Visa Overview
The Scale-Up Worker visa is for high-skilled workers joining a certified UK scale-up company. You must be sponsored for the first 6 months. After 6 months of continuous employment with your sponsor, your visa becomes fully unsponsored—allowing you to change employers, start a business, or freelance without notifying the Home Office.
5-Year Settlement (ILR) Rules for Scale-Up
To qualify for ILR after 5 years, you must show PAYE earnings of at least £39,100/yr (or relevant threshold) for at least 24 months during the 3 years prior to applying for settlement.
High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa Overview
The HPI visa is designed for recent graduates from top global universities outside the UK. It grants 2 years (or 3 years for PhD holders) of unsponsored work freedom in the UK.
Global Universities List Rule
Your university must appear on the official Home Office Global Universities List for the specific calendar year your degree was awarded. Qualifications must have been awarded within 5 years before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions (6 Detailed FAQs)
Official GOV.UK Sources
International Money Transfer & FX Rates
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Newcomer & Expat Emergency Health Cover
Waiting for NHS, OHIP, or state healthcare to activate? Protect against uninsured hospital bills before your official health card arrives.