The UK Service Supplier Visa offers a valuable opportunity for overseas professionals to deliver services within the UK under existing international trade agreements. It’s tailored specifically for contract service providers and self-employed specialists whose services fall under a qualifying agreement between their home country and the UK. While the visa opens doors for career advancement and cross-border collaboration, applicants must follow a well-defined set of immigration rules. This guide walks you through the essentials of extending or switching your visa while helping you navigate time limits, eligibility, and documentation.

Understanding Eligibility and Conditions

To be considered for a UK Service Supplier Visa, individuals must already have a service contract or offer services covered by an approved trade agreement. The applicant must be a self-employed professional or an employee of a service-supplying company established overseas. It’s also vital to demonstrate at least 12 months of relevant work experience before applying, with matching qualifications for the job they intend to perform in the UK.

A UK-based sponsor must issue a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), confirming the applicant’s job role and contract details. The visa is typically granted for six to twelve months, depending on the terms of the agreement and sponsorship certificate. However, a maximum cumulative limit applies—professionals cannot exceed five years across all temporary worker routes within any six-year period. These strict conditions are in place to align with the UK’s broader immigration and trade policy framework.

Application and Processing Details

Applying for the UK Service Supplier Visa begins with gathering critical documents. These include the sponsorship certificate, proof of prior work experience, academic or professional qualifications, and financial statements confirming the required savings threshold of £1,270. If dependents are included in the application, additional documents such as marriage and birth certificates may be required.

Applicants must submit their forms online via the UK Government website. After paying the application fee—currently £259 for the main applicant—and a healthcare surcharge of £624 per year, the next step is to schedule a biometrics appointment. Once these steps are complete, the Home Office will begin processing the application. Standard processing times range from three to six weeks, although applicants applying from within the UK may need to wait up to eight weeks. Expedited services are sometimes available for an extra charge. Ensuring all documentation is correct and complete will help prevent unnecessary delays or rejections.

Switching or Extending the Visa

Professionals nearing the end of their visa term have two options: apply for an extension or switch to another visa category. Extensions are only granted if the applicant continues in the same role with the same employer, under the same service agreement. Applications must be submitted at least 28 days before the visa expires. During the processing period, applicants must remain in the UK, as leaving the country may result in automatic withdrawal of the application.

Switching to a different visa, such as the Skilled Worker or Global Talent visa, may be more suitable for those seeking long-term career growth or a change in job role. In such cases, applicants need a new sponsor and must meet the criteria specific to the new visa type. Switching can only occur before the Service Supplier Visa expires, and applying after the 14-day grace period risks breaching UK immigration rules. Whether extending or switching, timely planning and accurate paperwork are key to maintaining a lawful status in the UK.

How EOR Services UK Can Help

Navigating the UK’s immigration landscape can be challenging, especially for international professionals handling contract-based roles. EOR Services UK provides end-to-end support for foreign service suppliers who wish to work in the UK efficiently and legally. From helping employers issue compliant sponsorship certificates to assisting workers with visa extension or switching documentation, EOR Services UK ensures that all parties remain fully aligned with Home Office requirements.

What sets EOR Services UK apart is its local HR expertise and knowledge of UK employment law. This is particularly valuable for businesses using global talent under international trade agreements. EOR Services UK can also act as the employer of record, taking care of payroll, benefits, and compliance, thereby easing the administrative burden for both the UK company and the overseas professional.

Conclusion

The UK Service Supplier Visa serves as a vital link for international professionals entering the UK market under specific trade agreements. However, compliance with eligibility rules, visa duration limits, and renewal conditions is essential to maintaining your right to work. Switching to another visa category or extending your current visa requires planning, updated documentation, and strict adherence to deadlines. Support from immigration experts or service providers like EOR Services UK can simplify the process significantly. By staying informed and taking proactive steps, you can extend your time in the UK smoothly and continue building your professional journey with confidence.