General information only — not legal advice or a law firmRead the platform disclaimer
Accessibility tools
Text size
Business & talent

Global Business Mobility routes

Five sponsored routes for overseas businesses transferring staff or expanding activity in the UK.

Editorial statusFoundational guide
Last reviewed
26 July 2026
Primary source
GOV.UK
Reading time
5 minutes
General information only

This guide explains the published route. It does not assess whether you qualify or advise you to apply.

Plain-English overview

What is the Global Business Mobility routes?

Five sponsored routes for overseas businesses transferring staff or expanding activity in the UK.

UK immigration applications are decided under the rules and guidance in force when the decision is made. The exact application process can depend on where you apply, your current status and the evidence required for your circumstances.

Who this route is generally designed for

General answer

Overseas businesses and eligible workers undertaking a temporary UK assignment.

Being within the intended audience does not by itself mean a person meets every requirement. Definitions, exceptions and suitability rules may also affect an application.

Important points to understand

  • The category includes five routes with different purposes and eligibility tests.
  • A licensed sponsor and Certificate of Sponsorship are normally required.
  • Most Global Business Mobility routes do not lead directly to settlement.
  • Applicants should identify the exact sub-route before relying on general guidance.

Application fees, healthcare charge and processing

We do not hard-code a fee or decision time here because those figures can change and may depend on the application location, permission length and dependant applications.

What to check before relying on this route

  1. 1
    Confirm the route is open

    Read the current official overview and eligibility pages.

  2. 2
    Check where you can apply

    Inside-UK switching rules and overseas applications can differ.

  3. 3
    Identify every required condition

    Do not rely on one headline requirement or an old fee table.

  4. 4
    Use regulated advice if your facts are complex

    Previous refusals, overstaying, criminal issues or unusual evidence may need individual advice.

Primary official source

Read the current GOV.UK guidance

Open the official route page before making any immigration decision or payment.

Open official guidance

When general information is not enough

Get regulated advice for your own circumstances

If you need someone to assess eligibility, review evidence, prepare an application or represent you, check that they are authorised to provide immigration advice.

Learn how to verify a regulated professional →