Government Authorised Exchange category is for those individuals coming to the UK through approved schemes that aim to share knowledge, experience and best practice through work placements, whilst experiencing the wider social and cultural setting of the United Kingdom.
GAE route can only be accessed through unique schemes designed to bring in specific temporary workers; all schemes must be approved by the Home Office.
As a Higher Education Institution, we can access one of these unique scheme, known as the ‘Sponsored Researchers’ scheme. The visa is valid for 2 years maximum and cannot be extended beyond this date for any reason.
If the visiting researcher in question is being directed/told by a PI (or equivalent) what research they need to do, and/or the PI benefits from that research, then typically its GAE visa will be most applicable.
Permissible activities via the HEI ‘sponsored researcher’ GAE scheme:
- A formal research project or collaboration;
- A period of work based training/work experience/internship/placement;
- Skill development/knowledge transfer;
- A series of lectures, which doesn’t amount to a formal teaching post;
- External examinations
- Facilitates engagement with academics, researchers (inc. students), scientists, research engineers or other skilled research technology specialists
Funding
Funding can come from any legitimate source, including from the University itself or a third party, but individual cannot fund themselves and the payments must meet national minimum wage requirements. The individual can be paid weekly/monthly/annually or in one lump sum
ATAS liable visa route
Check if you need an ATAS certificate here.
Guidance
Find further guidance at GOV.UK.
Queries
Contact staffimmigration@liverpool.ac.uk
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