Skip to content

Reading room

Visa Rules for Skilled AI Workers

Posted by:
Date published: 20/01/2025
Skilled AI Workers

Get in touch with our immigration lawyers in the UK and call us on 0330 107 0106 to arrange a free no no-obligation call or request a free quote.

In a significant move to bolster the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) across the country, the UK Government may relax visa regulations for highly skilled AI professionals from overseas. This initiative forms part of the newly released AI Opportunities Action Plan, which outlines a comprehensive approach to position the UK as a leading global player in the AI sector and stimulate economic growth.

A Vision for AI Leadership

Released this week, the AI Opportunities Action Plan contains 50 strategic recommendations aimed at integrating AI technology into various sectors and enhancing the UK’s status as a hub for AI innovation. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed strong support for the plan, confirming the government’s commitment to implementing these recommendations.

Immigration Recommendation

Among the key recommendations, the report highlights the need for the UK government to explore ways to attract graduates from prestigious universities known for their exceptional AI programs. At present, institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology and Carnegie Mellon University in the United States are not listed on the UK’s Global Universities List, rendering their graduates ineligible for the High Potential Individual (HPI) visa.

To address this gap, the report advocates for the establishment of new immigration pathways and enhancement of existing ones to facilitate the entry of talented AI graduates into the UK. Additionally, it calls for action to mitigate broader challenges associated with visa costs and complexities, which often hinder start-ups and deter international talent from relocating to the UK. In response, the government has stated it “partially agrees” with this recommendation and emphasizes that the upcoming Industrial Strategy will outline plans to attract skilled AI professionals from around the globe.

Alternative Visa Routes for AI Professionals

Currently, AI experts and graduates from non-eligible institutions can still enter the UK through several established visa routes:

  1. Skilled Worker Route is the most commonly utilized immigration path for foreign nationals. To obtain a Skilled Worker visa, individuals must secure a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK employer.
  2. Global Talent Route is unsponsored immigration route aims to attract top-tier talent from various fields, including academia, research, arts, culture, and digital technology. If recognized as a leader or a budding leader in these areas, individuals can live and work in the UK under this visa.
  3. Innovator Founder Route is designed for those wishing to establish and run an innovative business in the UK, this unsponsored visa requires that business ideas be distinct and assessed by an approved endorsing body.
  4. Scale-up Worker Route permits skilled professionals to work for fast-growing UK businesses, known as ‘scale-ups.’ Employers must meet specific criteria to sponsor Scale-up Workers.
  5. Government Authorised Exchange Route offers temporary visa  for individuals coming to the UK for work experience, training, research, or fellowship opportunities through approved exchange schemes.

Future Opportunities for Employers

The Government’s endorsement of the recommendations within the AI Opportunities Action Plan signals an impending shift in how employers can recruit top-tier AI talent from across the world. As these changes are set in motion, it could become significantly easier for businesses in the UK to access the skills necessary to drive innovation and growth in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.

As these developments unfold, businesses should stay informed about the evolving immigration landscape to capitalize on the opportunities presented by a diverse and skilled workforce in the realm of AI.

Here is a link to the Gov.UK publication for this post.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.

To find out more about our services, visit Business immigration section of our website.

Call us now to discuss your case 0333 034 9474 or email us at business@imd.co.uk.

View all articles

Awards and Accreditations

IMD in the Media

Subscribe to our newsletter