GOVERNMENT AUTHORISED EXCHANGE (GAE)

The Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa is a subcategory of the Temporary Work visa. This route was known as the ‘T5 (Temporary Worker) Government Authorised Exchange Worker’ route before 11 October 2021. 

This route is for individuals coming to the UK for approved exchange schemes that aim to share knowledge, experience, and best practice.  GAE workers can stay in the UK for a maximum of 12 months if coming for the Work Experience Programme, or 2 years in all other cases. It is not a route to settlement in the UK(unless it counts towards the 10-year route). 

Normally, individuals are not allowed to switch to the route within the UK, except for students who have completed a recognised bachelor’s or postgraduate degree and are being sponsored to undertake

  •  a period of professional training or work experience necessary to obtain a professional qualification or professional registration relevant to the qualification, or

  •  an internship for up to 12 months which directly relates to the qualification provided. 

In both cases, they will not be filling a permanent vacancy and their employer does not intend to employ the worker in the UK once the training or work experience has ended.

Sponsorship 

Applicants must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by an approved sponsor for eligible employment. - GAE sponsor must be an overarching body that manages the exchange scheme and has the support of a UK government department. Applicants may also need a valid ATAS certificate if they are involved in certain occupations or PhD-level research in a relevant subject. 

Maintenance 

Applicants must have at least £1,270 in the bank account available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for this visa. This is to show that they have enough money to cover their expenses without seeking public funds.

They do not need to show maintenance if 

  • They have been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

  • Their employer can cover the costs during their first month in the UK, up to £1,270

We have had the privilege to assist many of our clients in successfully obtaining their Government Authorised Exchange visas to undertake internships in the UK. You are most welcome to contact us at +44 (0)20 3371 0606 for answers to your questions.