UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa - Temporary Worker
UK Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) Visa - Temporary Worker Route
The UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa - Temporary Worker allows individuals to enter the UK for work experience, training, research projects, or fellowships under an approved Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) scheme. This visa is for temporary stays and does not lead to settlement.
What is the UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa?
The UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa (GAE) is part of the Temporary Worker (T5) category, designed for individuals taking part in approved schemes for work experience, training, research, or skill-sharing initiatives.
This visa is not for general work but for individuals sponsored under an approved UK Government Authorised Exchange programme.
It is open to:
- Work experience placements and internships.
- Research projects or fellowships.
- Training programmes or skill-sharing initiatives.
Applicants must have a UK-based sponsor and be part of an official exchange scheme approved by the UK government.
Who Can Apply for a UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa?
To be eligible for the Government Authorised Exchange visa for the UK, you should:
- Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved exchange scheme provider.
- Be coming to the UK for work experience, training, research, or a fellowship.
- Be 18 or older at the time of application.
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself without public funds.
- Show you intend to leave the UK when your visa expires.
This visa is not for permanent employment and does not allow switching to long-term work visas while in the UK.
Approved UK Government Authorised Exchange Schemes
Your placement must be under one of the officially recognised schemes, which include:
- Internship and work experience programmes
- Research fellowships and scientific exchanges
- Training in specialist fields, including medicine and academia
- Government-backed cultural and educational exchange schemes
Your sponsor will confirm whether your scheme qualifies under the Government Authorised Exchange route.
How Long Can You Stay on a UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa?
- The visa is valid for up to 12 or 24 months, depending on the scheme.
- You can arrive in the UK up to 14 days before your start date.
- Extensions are only allowed if required under your specific scheme.
- You must leave the UK when your visa expires.
What You Can and Cannot Do on a UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa
You can:
- Work for your sponsoring employer or organisation under the approved scheme.
- Take on voluntary work.
- Study (some restrictions apply).
- Travel in and out of the UK during your visa period.
You cannot:
- Take on permanent employment.
- Work outside your sponsoring organisation’s approved scheme.
- Apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
- Access public funds or benefits.
- Switch to a Skilled Worker Visa or any other work visa while in the UK.
Sponsorship and Employer Requirements of the Government Authorised Exchange Visa (GAE) in the UK
Your UK sponsor must:
- Be approved by the Home Office under a Government Authorised Exchange scheme.
- Assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before you apply.
- Ensure that your role meets the eligibility criteria for the exchange scheme.
The employer or organisation must report any changes in your employment status and ensure you comply with visa conditions.
How to Apply for a UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa (GAE)
Step 1: Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your UK sponsor must issue a CoS before you apply.
Step 2: Check if You Can Use the UK Immigration: ID Check App
Some applicants do not need to attend a visa application centre and can verify their identity using the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
You can use the app if:
- You are applying from outside the UK.
- You hold a biometric passport from an eligible country.
If eligible, you will be prompted to use the app during the online application process.
Step 3: Apply Online
- Complete your application through the official UK government website.
- Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Step 4: Verify Your Identity
If you cannot use the UK Immigration: ID Check app, you must book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to:
- Provide fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information).
- Submit any additional required documents.
Step 5: Await a Decision
- Standard processing time: 3 weeks.
- Priority processing (optional): 5 working days for an extra £500.
Once approved, you will receive:
- A digital status if you used the ID Check app.
- A visa vignette in your passport if you applied via a VAC.
UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa Fees and Costs
Visa Application Fee:
- £298
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
- £1,035 per year
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Fee:
- Paid by the UK sponsor (£239 per worker)
The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) does not apply to this visa.
How Immtell Can Help
Applying for a UK Government Authorised Exchange Visa requires careful preparation to ensure compliance with Home Office requirements. Immtell provides expert support to help:
- UK organisations obtain a Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence.
- Exchange workers complete their visa application accurately.
- Ensure roles meet Home Office eligibility requirements.
- Assist with visa compliance and legal support.
Gain Professional Experience in the UK
Discover strategic immigration solutions with Immtell’s UK Immigration Consultants. Our blend of legal expertise and problem-solving skills is ready to guide you. Eager to start your journey? Click below to connect with us now
Discover strategic immigration solutions with Immtell’s UK Immigration Consultants. Our blend of legal expertise and problem-solving skills is ready to guide you. Eager to start your journey? Click below to connect with us now
Further Reading
What is the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
Your Guide to the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK: Meeting Eligibility and Navigating Compliance
The UK Immigration Process: A Guide for Newcomers
Your Essential Guide to Navigating the UK Immigration Process with Confidence
Guide to Successfully Obtaining a UK Work Visa in 2025
How to Obtain a Work Visa for the UK in 2025