The ICT visa allows existing employees of multinational companies to be transferred temporarily from overseas to the companies’ UK branch or linked entity. The role must be at RQF level 6, (degree level) and the applicant must be earning a minimum salary of £41,500 per year or the “going rate”, whichever is higher. 

As of 31 December 2020, freedom of movement between the EU and the UK ended, meaning that all EU and non-EU nationals will now have to be sponsored by their employer to gain an Intra-Company Transfer visa. Individuals wishing to work in the UK must meet a set of requirements under the points-based immigration system which was implemented to treat EU and non-EU citizens equally. This does not include Irish citizens. It is vital that both applicants and employers understand the new regulations. 

The New Changes

As of 1 January 2021, the changes are as follows. 

• The salary threshold has been reduced from £120,000 to £73,900. 
• Applicants must now hold a minimum of £1,270 for 28 days preceding the visa application or the sponsor may certify maintenance on the individuals certificate of sponsorship. 

• The 12-month “cooling off” period has been removed. Instead, workers on an ICT visa can now stay in the UK for up to 5 years in any 6 year period or 9 years in a 10 year period if earning £73,900 or more. 

• Individuals wanting to obtain an indefinite leave to remain (ILR) can switch to the Skilled Worker visa. This will put applicants on the right track to obtaining an indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after living in the UK for five consecutive years. 

How we can help

At NA Law Solicitors we provide thorough guidance and advice to ensure that your application for an ICT visa is prepared to the highest degree with attention paid to every detail in order to avoid refusal and warrant a successful outcome. We also provide guidance on Tier 2 sponsorship licenses and Tier 2 certificate of sponsorship applications. Please contact us here for further guidance or call us on 0203 5245439.