According to a report by the Financial Times, a “global talent task force” led by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is exploring ways to attract leading scientists, academics, and digital experts to the UK. The initiative aims to boost economic growth and is being discussed by officials at Number 10 and the Treasury.
A key proposal under consideration is to reduce visa costs to zero for individuals who have attended one of the world’s top five universities or have won prestigious awards. This idea was reportedly being discussed even before the US announced a new $100,000 fee for H-1B visas, which are commonly used by US tech companies.
However, the US decision has given new momentum to those advocating for changes to the UK’s high-end visa system. The aim is to accelerate economic growth ahead of the November 26 Budget. A person involved in the discussions told the Financial Times that the move has “put wind in the sails” of the reform efforts.
Currently, the UK’s global talent visa application costs £766 ($1,030), with the same fee applying to partners and children. The Treasury and Downing Street have not yet commented on the matter.
