A Temporary Worker route for overseas nationals coming to the UK on an approved exchange scheme to share knowledge and skills via work experience, training, an Overseas Government Language Programme, research or a fellowship. You must be sponsored by a licensed UK organisation running an approved scheme (or a government department/HEI for researchers/examiners/visiting academics).
Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) Visa. What it is and who it’s for?
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This visa is one of the few that lets you take a second job for up to 20 hours a week, as long as your main placement is still your priority.
Core Eligibility Sponsor, age, maintenance and scheme acceptance
Applicants must be 18+, accepted onto an approved scheme, and hold a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an A-rated sponsor. You must also meet maintenance funds unless exempt.
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What You Can and Can’t Do on GAE
You may do the scheme activity, study, and take a second job (up to 20 hours/week) in an eligible role. Permanent jobs and most restricted professions are not allowed.
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Genuine Role Requirement Supernumerary, skilled and fairly paid
The role must be genuine, relate to the sponsor’s activities, be supernumerary (not displacing a resident worker), require at least RQF Level 3 skill, and meet minimum wage rules.
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Documents You’ll Need Identity, sponsorship, funds and clearances
Submit identity evidence and documents proving sponsorship and maintenance. Some roles need extra clearances.
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How to Apply Online application plus ID verification
Apply online up to 3 months before your UK start date. Verify identity via the UK Immigration: ID Check app or at a visa application centre (biometrics).
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Fees and Processing Times What to budget for
You pay an application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for access to the NHS.
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Length of Stay & Extensions How long you can remain
Your stay depends on activity type and your CoS.
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Switching into GAE from Inside the UK Limited, study-linked options
Certain students and recent graduates can switch if the GAE role links to their UK degree.
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Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Accuracy and timing matter
Your sponsor must be licensed for the scheme and issue a compliant CoS.
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Bringing Dependants Partner and children can join if eligible
Partners and children can apply as dependants with proof of relationship and funds.
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Rights & Restrictions for Dependants Linked status
Dependants may work and study with some role restrictions; no access to public funds.
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Settlement Route GAE is not a direct path to ILR
This is a temporary route and does not lead to settlement by itself.
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If Refused Your next steps
Options depend on the reason for refusal and your case history.
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Common Pitfalls Avoid these to protect your application
Most issues arise from documentation gaps or role ineligibility.
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Why GAE is Useful Practical benefits
A flexible, time-limited way to gain UK experience and collaborate internationally.
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