The Service Supplier visa lets overseas employees or self-employed professionals come to the UK temporarily to deliver services to a UK client under a contract covered by an international trade agreement. It replaced the former International Agreement route and does not lead directly to settlement.
Service Supplier Visa (Global Business Mobility) — Overview
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Where trade meets talent the Service Supplier visa connects international expertise with UK contracts under global trade agreements.
Eligibility Criteria
You must be contracted to supply services to a UK business under a qualifying trade agreement, hold a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK-licensed sponsor, be in an eligible occupation (or meet higher qualification/experience rules if not listed), and meet the 12-month prior work requirement.
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Eligible Jobs & When Your Job Isn’t Listed
Most roles need to be on the eligible occupations list (use your 4-digit occupation code). If not listed, you may still qualify with the right qualifications/experience. Certain services (e.g., management consulting, chefs de cuisine, fashion/modelling) have specific requirements.
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Application Process
Apply online, upload documents, prove identity (app or VAC biometrics), and await a decision. Applications can be made up to 3 months before the CoS start date.
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Costs & Processing Times
You’ll pay a visa fee plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS); you must also meet the maintenance funds rule unless exempt/sponsor-certified.
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Conditions — What You Can / Can’t Do
You can work only in the sponsored role for the UK client, study, volunteer, travel, and bring eligible dependants; public funds are restricted.
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Length of Stay & Maximum Time Limits
Your permission depends on the relevant trade agreement: up to 6 or 12 months, or the CoS period + 14 days if shorter. GBM cumulative caps apply.
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Dependants
Partners and children may accompany you if relationship and finance rules are met; their visas end when yours ends.
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Settlement Pathways
The Service Supplier visa does not lead to ILR. Many use it as a stepping stone to switch into a settlement-leading route if they later qualify.
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