The Government Authorised Exchange (“GAE”) visa is for individuals who want to come to the UK on a temporary basis to gain work experience, undertake training, conduct research, or participate in an Overseas Government Language Programme.

This visa must be sponsored under an approved government-authorised exchange scheme.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for this visa, applicants must:

• Hold a certificate of sponsorship from an approved sponsor (such an authorised exchange scheme, higher education institution, or UK government departments/agency)
• Meet the financial requirements to support themselves during their stay. The sponsoring employer must also pay the individual a salary of at least UK minimum wage
• Intend to leave the UK at the end of their visa.

Key considerations

• The visa is typically granted for up to 12 or 24 months, depending on the specific exchange scheme
• Applicants must not use this visa to fill a permanent job role or to work in the UK outside of the scope of the exchange programme
• This visa route does not lead to settlement in the UK.

Application process

To bring an individual to the UK under the GAE visa route, the employing organisation must first register with an approved provider. A list of these providers is available on the UK Government website.

Registration involves:

• Submitting an application to the provider.
• Providing a detailed internship or training plan
• Supplying information about the organisation
• Often participating in an interview.

If the provider approves the organisation, it will be registered under the scheme.

Once registered, the individual can apply for their GAE visa by:

• Preparing and submitting their application to the Home Office
• Providing supporting documents and biometric data.

Upon approval, the individual may travel to the UK. The employer must ensure ongoing compliance with both Home Office and provider requirements throughout the visa period.

How we can help

Our team has extensive experience supporting organisations through the GAE scheme process.

We have worked closely with approved providers and offer comprehensive assistance, including:

• Preparing internship/training plans
• Completing registration applications
• Collating required documentation
• Providing interview preparation.

We also support individuals with their visa applications by:

• Advising on eligibility
• Assisting with document collection
• Ensuring compliance with Home Office requirements
• Guiding through the submission and biometric stages.

As the GAE route involves multiple steps, we offer end-to-end support - from initial registration to the individual’s arrival in the UK.

If you are an individual or organisation interested in applying under the GAE route, please contact a member of the team who will be happy to discuss how we can assist you.