Researcher Immigration Scheme

Information about visa costs and NHS surcharges for newly appointed Researchers (Grades 6-8)

Visa Costs Payment and Reimbursement

As of Dec 1 2023, any researcher on grades 6B, 7 or 8 who applies for a Skilled Worker Visa can claim up to £4k in total for visa fees and immigration health surcharges (IHS) for up to 3 years (3 year visa and IHS) from central UCL. After the first 3 years, UCL central will pay for the visa renewal, but researchers/labs will then need to cover the IHS.

Note that this scheme is not for newly appointed Academic and Teaching Staff (Grade 8-10) and Senior Professional Services Staff (Grade 9-10). They should refer to UCL’s relocation scheme https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/relocation-scheme. This scheme does not apply to those applying for a Global Talent Visa (GTV).

The Division remains responsible for people who apply for Global Talent Visas (GTV) that is linked to a specific role at UCL, but Global Talent Visas will not cover the Immigration Health Surcharge. Some research grants cover Researcher costs relating to immigration applications (e.g. Wellcome Trust, BBSRC) and encourage you to apply for a GTV.

For further information please visit UCLs guidance notes for immigration:
https://www.ucl.ac.uk/human-resources/working-ucl/hr-services/immigration/guidance-notes-payment-immigration-costs

If you wish to discuss your options please contact the Biosciences HR Team (biosciences.staffing@ucl.ac.uk).

All applications for fee reimbursement should be submitted within 3 months of receipt of the visa.