Service Supplier Visa
Temporary UK Work Under International Trade Agreements
The UK Service Supplier Visa is part of the Global Business Mobility routes. It allows eligible overseas professionals to enter the UK temporarily to deliver services under a qualifying international trade agreement.
This visa is not open to everyone. It applies only where strict contractual, professional, and trade agreement conditions are met.
Visa Aid provides compliance-first guidance to ensure applicants use this route correctly.
What the Service Supplier Visa Allows
If approved, you may:
- Enter the UK to deliver services under a qualifying international contract
• Work only for the UK sponsor named in the application
• Stay for a limited period, based on the trade agreement and contract terms
• Be paid for services under the approved arrangement
This route does not lead to settlement and is strictly time-limited.
Who This Visa Is For
The Service Supplier Visa is suitable only if:
- You are employed by an overseas service provider, or are a qualifying self-employed professional
• Your home country is covered by an eligible UK trade agreement
• Your occupation is listed as eligible under that agreement
• You have the required qualifications and professional experience
• A UK business is acting as a licensed sponsor
Generic consultants and freelancers usually do not qualify.
What You Are NOT Allowed to Do
This visa does not permit:
- Open-ended or permanent UK work
• Freelancing beyond the approved contract
• Working for multiple UK clients
• Switching employers freely
• Accessing public funds
• Staying beyond the permitted period
Using this visa incorrectly can damage future UK visa options.
Sponsorship and Trade Agreement Requirements
To qualify, the UK sponsor must:
- Hold a valid sponsor licence
• Have a genuine services contract under an eligible trade agreement
• Sponsor only the approved role and activity
Visa Aid checks sponsor and contract compliance before application.
Application Process with Visa Aid
- Trade agreement and occupation eligibility check
- Contract and sponsor verification
- Role and experience assessment
- Document preparation
- Visa application submission
- Biometric appointment and decision tracking
We do not submit weak or speculative cases.
Common Reasons Applications Are Refused
- Occupation not covered by the trade agreement
• Sponsor not properly licensed
• Contract does not qualify
• Applicant lacks required experience
• Visa used as a substitute for work routes
These mistakes are preventable with proper advice.
Official and Reliable Sources
All guidance follows current UK government rules:
UK Home Office – Service Supplier Visa
https://www.gov.uk/service-supplier-visa
Global Business Mobility Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/global-business-mobility
Visa Aid relies only on official policy.
Speak to Visa Aid Before You Apply
If your role or contract does not clearly meet trade agreement rules, this visa is not suitable.