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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 (SWV) 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. This does not apply to Professional Services or Technical staff who require SWV, (reimbursements are only applicable for research members of staff).
Also 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 also does not apply to Researchers applying for a Global Talent Visa (GTV).
The Division remains responsible for covering the visa cost for people who apply for GTV linked to a specific role at UCL (that being a ‘core’ funded Academic position. GTV will not cover the Immigration Health Surcharge. Some research grants will cover Researcher costs relating to immigration applications (e.g. Wellcome Trust, BBSRC) and encourage you to apply for a GTV. Please check with your funders before making an application 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”