(Updated October 2021) 5 lesser known UK visas that lead to settlement
#1 Global Talent: settlement after 3 – 5 years This category is becoming more and more accessible, having included engineers, architects, scientists, digital technology workers as well as actors, designers and other creative workers. L eads to settlement (Indefinite Leave) after 3 years if you have secured an endorsement of the Talent type from Tech Nation, Arts Council England; of either type (Talent or Promise) from other endorsing bodies; or you qualified on the basis of winning an eligible award. In all other types of endorsement, the minimum residency period is 5 years. Important: you can combine some other visas when counting 'your' 3 or 5 years. Such as Tier 2 General, Skilled Worker or Tier 1 Entrepreneur. We have a designated page on our website here. #2 Ancestral visa: settlement after 5 years Ancestral visa is for Commonwealth citizens, it is based on having a grandparent who was born in the UK. Often used by Australians, New Zealanders, Sout...