Immigration

Different visa and immigration routes apply depending on the type of role or activity at the University of St Andrews.

Choose the visa or immigration route relevant to your situation for detailed guidance:

• Skilled Worker visa – for staff employed by the University in eligible roles. Covers sponsorship, salary thresholds, application process, dependants, and settlement routes.
• Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) temporary work visa – for researchers and academics coming to the University on a temporary basis for collaboration, training, or knowledge exchange.
• Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) – security clearance required for certain sensitive research areas in science, engineering, technology, and medicine. Applies to some Skilled Worker and GAE visa holders and to certain visiting researchers.
• Visitors' visas – for short-term visits such as giving lectures, attending conferences, or collaborating on research. Explains Standard Visitor, Permitted Paid Engagement, and when a GAE visa may be more appropriate.

The HR Immigration team provides tailored advice to line managers, current and prospective staff, and visitors.

This includes:

• guidance on eligibility and application processes
• issuing Certificates of Sponsorship where required
• ensuring the University meets UKVI sponsor obligations
• support with Indefinite Leave to Remain applications

The HR Immigration team can be contacted at hr.immigration@st-andrews.ac.uk.

Students should instead contact International Advice at advint@st-andrews.ac.uk in Registry.

In addition to the visa application fee, applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The exact amount depends on the length of the visa. Full details of visa and IHS costs are available on the UK Government website.

The University provides support for staff with immigration expenses through its Immigration Reimbursement policy (PDF).

To claim reimbursement for visa expenses, staff must complete and submit the reimbursement form together with all relevant receipts to Human Resources. A copy of the form and guidance on its completion can be obtained from hr.immigration@st-andrews.ac.uk. All claims must adhere to the policy.

Please note that the University cannot support employees in switching visas if they already hold immigration permission in the UK that can be transferred to a new role at St Andrews.