The Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa is a UK immigration route for overseas nationals who wish to take part in short-term work experience, training, research, fellowships, or Overseas Government Language Programmes under an approved scheme. It sits within the Temporary Worker category of the Immigration Rules and is designed to promote international collaboration, professional development, and cultural exchange.
In this detailed guide, we explain what the Government Authorised Exchange visa is, who can apply, the eligibility requirements, how to make an application, the costs involved, and the conditions attached to this route.
Section A: What is the Government Authorised Exchange Visa?
The Government Authorised Exchange visa allows overseas nationals to come to the UK for a short-term period to undertake government-approved professional or academic exchange programmes. The scheme is strictly temporary and does not provide a route to indefinite leave to remain. Its focus is on structured placements that are additional to the UK labour market, such as research placements, professional training, or cultural exchange activities.
1. Purpose of the Government Authorised Exchange Visa
The purpose of the GAE visa is to promote cultural understanding, knowledge transfer, and professional development by giving non-UK nationals opportunities to gain work experience or participate in structured programmes in the UK. It is not intended to fill labour shortages or provide permanent employment. Any role undertaken under this visa must be supernumerary, meaning it cannot replace a vacancy within the sponsoring organisation or be used for regular staffing needs.
2. Qualifying Activities
Applicants can take part in a wide range of activities, provided the programme is formally approved under the GAE category. These activities include:
- Work experience: Short-term placements that give practical exposure to professional practices in a particular field.
- Training programmes: Structured schemes, which may be professional or technical, designed to build skills.
- Research or fellowships: Temporary academic opportunities, often in higher education institutions, to undertake research or join a fellowship programme.
- Overseas Government Language Programmes: Placements funded by foreign governments to allow participants to develop their English language ability.
3. Qualifying Sponsors
To qualify, applicants must have a Certificate of Sponsorship from an approved GAE sponsor. Sponsors for this route are limited and must be listed on the official register of licensed sponsors. They include:
- Overarching bodies: Organisations approved by the Home Office to operate specific GAE schemes with backing from a UK government department. These bodies coordinate and oversee placements.
- Higher education institutions: Universities and research institutions may sponsor individuals for certain research, fellowship, or examiner roles.
- UK government departments and agencies: Public authorities running approved professional or training schemes can act as sponsors.
Individual UK employers cannot directly sponsor under the GAE visa unless they are operating as part of a government-approved overarching scheme. Sponsors are responsible for monitoring compliance and reporting issues to the Home Office via the Sponsorship Management System.
4. Duration of Stay
The length of permission under the GAE visa depends on the nature of the programme. The maximum duration is either:
- Up to 12 months for most work experience or training schemes
- Up to 24 months for research, fellowship programmes, or Overseas Government Language Programmes
The Home Office normally grants permission for the length of the placement plus up to 14 days before and after. Extensions are possible within the route but cannot exceed the scheme maximum. The visa cannot be used to build time towards settlement.
5. Dependants
Holders of the GAE visa may be accompanied by their dependant partner and children, provided they meet the eligibility requirements. Dependants must apply separately and pay the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge. Their visas will end in line with the main applicant’s visa. Dependants are allowed to work in the UK, with the exception of working as a professional sportsperson or coach.
Section B: Eligibility Criteria for the Government Authorised Exchange Visa
To qualify for a Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa, applicants must meet the requirements under the UK Immigration Rules. The criteria are designed to ensure that individuals are coming for genuine exchange and training purposes, rather than to take up permanent work.
1. Certificate of Sponsorship
Applicants must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issued by an authorised sponsor licensed under the GAE scheme. The CoS is an electronic record that confirms details of the placement, including:
- The applicant’s personal details
- The programme type (work experience, training, research, fellowship, or language programme)
- The duration of the placement
- The location and description of the role
- Confirmation that the role is supernumerary and not filling a vacancy
The CoS reference number must be included in the visa application. It is valid for three months from the date of issue and can only be used once.
2. Approved Programme Participation
Applicants must be participating in an exchange programme formally approved by the UK government under Appendix Temporary Work – Government Authorised Exchange of the Immigration Rules. The placement must:
- Be organised under a recognised GAE scheme
- Be temporary and limited to the scope of the scheme
- Not involve filling a vacancy or engaging in unskilled labour
- Comply with UK minimum wage and working-time requirements, unless a permitted exemption applies
- Be listed in the Skilled Occupations Appendix under the appropriate tables (1, 1a, 2, 2aa, 3, or 3a)
Placements outside these categories are not eligible under this route.
3. Financial Requirement
Applicants must show that they have adequate funds to support themselves in the UK unless their sponsor has certified maintenance on the CoS. This requirement is satisfied by showing at least £1,270 in personal savings, held for 28 consecutive days prior to the date of application.
If the sponsor is covering the applicant’s costs, this must be expressly confirmed on the CoS.
4. ATAS Requirement (if applicable)
If the applicant will be conducting research in a sensitive subject area at a UK higher education institution, an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate may also be required. This applies only to certain research roles listed in Appendix ATAS. Where relevant, the ATAS clearance certificate must be obtained before submitting the visa application.
5. Additional Eligibility Considerations
Applicants must also meet the general grounds for admission under the Immigration Rules, which include:
- Holding a valid passport or travel document
- Having no history of serious criminal convictions
- Meeting health requirements, including tuberculosis testing if from a listed country
- Not falling foul of immigration bans or previous overstaying issues
There is no English language requirement for the Government Authorised Exchange visa.
6. Summary of Eligibility Criteria
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Certificate of Sponsorship | Must be issued by an approved GAE sponsor and confirm programme details |
| Approved Programme | Programme must be recognised under the GAE scheme and meet Immigration Rules |
| Financial Requirement | £1,270 in savings for 28 days, unless sponsor certifies maintenance |
| ATAS Certificate | Required for certain research roles at HEIs in sensitive subjects |
| General Grounds | No immigration breaches, criminal history, or health concerns |
Section C: Application Process for the Government Authorised Exchange Visa
The application process for the Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa is designed to ensure that only eligible candidates, sponsored under approved schemes, are granted entry. The process is primarily online but requires supporting documents and identity verification before a decision can be made.
1. Step-by-Step Application Guide
Applicants must follow the Home Office process carefully. The main steps are:
- Step 1: Secure a Certificate of Sponsorship
Obtain a confirmed place on an approved GAE programme. Your sponsor will issue a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number that must be included in your application. - Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Gather all necessary documents, including:- A valid passport or travel document
- Your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number
- Proof of savings (at least £1,270 for 28 consecutive days) unless maintenance is certified by your sponsor
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results, if applicable
- ATAS certificate, if your role requires one
- Any additional documents requested in your CoS (for example, academic or professional certificates)
- Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Apply through the official UK government visa application portal. You will be required to pay the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) at this stage. - Step 4: Identity Verification
Depending on your nationality and circumstances, you will either:- Book and attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph), or
- Use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your identity documents and submit a facial scan digitally.
- Step 5: Upload or Submit Documents
Provide your supporting evidence online or at your VAC appointment. This may include original or scanned documents, depending on the service available in your country. - Step 6: Await Decision
After submitting your application and completing biometric enrolment, you must wait for a decision. The Home Office usually processes GAE applications within three weeks if applying from outside the UK, or within eight weeks if applying to extend or switch in-country. Priority services may be available for an additional fee.
2. Application Costs and Fees
Applicants must pay the relevant Home Office fees, which are subject to change. The current fees are as follows:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Application Fee | £319 | Payable by each applicant and dependant |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | £1,035 per year | Grants access to the NHS during stay |
| Priority Service (optional) | £500 | Decision usually within 5 working days |
| Super Priority Service (optional) | £1,000 | Decision usually within 24 hours |
| Tuberculosis Test (if required) | £65–£110 | Mandatory for applicants from certain countries |
| ATAS Certificate (if required) | No fee | Required for specific research roles |
3. Processing Times
Most GAE visa applications made outside the UK are decided within three weeks. In-country applications for an extension or switch usually take up to eight weeks. Delays may occur if additional information is requested, if documents are incomplete, or if there are high volumes of applications.
Applicants who require a faster decision can use the priority or super-priority services where available. However, these services are not offered in every country.
4. Common Application Pitfalls
The most frequent reasons for delays or refusals include:
- Submitting an expired or invalid Certificate of Sponsorship
- Not meeting the financial requirement or providing incorrect evidence of funds
- Omitting required documents such as a TB test certificate or ATAS clearance when applicable
- Making mistakes on the online application form
- Misunderstanding visa conditions, such as taking on unauthorised employment
Applicants should check all documents against the Home Office requirements before submission to avoid refusal.
Section D: Benefits of the Government Authorised Exchange Visa
The Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa offers a number of advantages both for applicants taking part in UK-based programmes and for UK organisations that host and sponsor them. These benefits demonstrate the importance of the scheme in fostering cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and professional development.
1. Benefits for Applicants
For applicants, the GAE visa provides the opportunity to:
- Gain international experience: Build your professional profile by taking part in recognised training, research, or fellowship placements in the UK.
- Develop skills: Acquire new knowledge and technical abilities that can improve your career prospects at home and abroad.
- Expand professional networks: Connect with UK professionals, academics, and fellow participants from around the world.
- Cultural immersion: Experience British life and culture, enhancing your cross-cultural understanding and awareness.
- Healthcare access: Use the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay by paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
- Flexibility: Undertake short-term placements without the long-term immigration commitments of other visas.
2. Benefits for UK Organisations
UK sponsors and host organisations also benefit from the GAE scheme. These include:
- Access to international talent: Organisations can host skilled individuals from overseas who bring fresh perspectives and global experience.
- Enhanced training and development: Employers and academic institutions can deliver structured training programmes that support both participant learning and organisational goals.
- Cultural and academic exchange: Exposure to diverse cultural and academic backgrounds strengthens international collaboration.
- Temporary placements only: Organisations can meet short-term needs without creating permanent employment obligations.
- Reputation building: Taking part in government-authorised schemes supports an organisation’s corporate social responsibility and international standing.
3. Shared Benefits of Cultural Exchange
At its core, the GAE visa facilitates cultural and academic exchange that benefits both the individual and the host organisation. The scheme strengthens global partnerships, promotes goodwill between nations, and contributes to knowledge transfer across borders. By remaining temporary in nature, it ensures that skills and expertise can be taken back to participants’ home countries for long-term benefit.
Section E: Common Challenges with the Government Authorised Exchange Visa
Although the Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa provides excellent opportunities, applicants frequently encounter difficulties during the process. Understanding the most common challenges can help reduce the risk of delays or refusals.
1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
One of the main reasons for visa delays or refusals is incomplete or inaccurate documentation. A missing Certificate of Sponsorship, incorrect financial evidence, or an expired passport can result in the Home Office rejecting the application. Applicants must prepare a document checklist and cross-check each requirement before submission.
2. Financial Requirement Failures
Applicants must demonstrate they can support themselves financially unless their sponsor certifies maintenance. Not holding the required £1,270 in savings for 28 consecutive days, or failing to provide acceptable bank statements, will normally result in refusal. It is essential that funds are in the applicant’s account and accessible at the time of applying.
3. Delays in Gathering Supporting Evidence
Obtaining documents such as tuberculosis test certificates, ATAS clearance (if required), or criminal record certificates (for safeguarding roles) can take weeks. Applying too close to the intended start date can create timing issues if these documents are not ready in time. Early preparation is crucial.
4. Errors in the Online Application Form
Even small mistakes on the online application form can cause processing delays. For example, inconsistent dates or mismatched personal details compared with the Certificate of Sponsorship may lead to queries from UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). Applicants should check every entry before submitting.
5. Misunderstanding Visa Conditions
The GAE visa has strict conditions. It only permits the role specified on the Certificate of Sponsorship and approved under the scheme. Applicants must not use the visa to take permanent employment, fill a vacancy, or provide routine labour. Breaching these conditions can result in visa curtailment and difficulties with future immigration applications.
Applicants may take a second job of up to 20 hours per week in a role on the Immigration Salary List, but only alongside their main sponsored role. This is a key condition to understand before working in the UK under the GAE visa.
6. Processing Delays
While the Home Office aims to process most applications within three weeks, delays are possible due to high demand, missing documents, or requests for additional information. For applicants with urgent start dates, priority or super-priority services should be considered where available, despite the higher cost.
7. Sponsor Compliance Risks
Sponsors have significant responsibilities, including monitoring attendance and reporting to the Home Office. If a sponsor fails in its duties, the participant’s visa may be at risk. Applicants should ensure that their chosen sponsor is reputable, compliant, and experienced in managing GAE schemes.
Section F: Summary
The Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa is a short-term immigration route under the UK’s Temporary Worker category. It allows overseas nationals to come to the UK to take part in government-approved programmes that promote cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and professional development.
To qualify, applicants need a Certificate of Sponsorship from an authorised GAE sponsor and must demonstrate financial stability, unless maintenance is confirmed by the sponsor. Some applicants may also require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate, depending on the nature of their research.
The GAE visa permits stays of up to 12 months for most training and work experience placements, or up to 24 months for research, fellowships, or Overseas Government Language Programmes. The visa does not lead to indefinite leave to remain, but it provides valuable experience, skills, and international exposure.
Applicants should prepare carefully to avoid pitfalls such as incomplete documentation, failure to meet the financial requirement, or misunderstanding visa conditions. Sponsors also play a critical role in ensuring compliance with Home Office requirements, and applicants should ensure their scheme is run by a reputable, licensed body.
While temporary in nature, the GAE visa offers important benefits for both participants and UK organisations, supporting knowledge transfer, global partnerships, and cultural understanding.
Section G: Need Assistance?
Applying for a Government Authorised Exchange visa involves meeting strict eligibility requirements, securing sponsorship under an approved scheme, and providing extensive supporting documentation. Mistakes or omissions can lead to delays or refusals, which may affect your ability to start your programme in the UK on time.
If you are unsure about your eligibility, the responsibilities of your sponsor, or how to prepare your supporting documents, it is advisable to review the official Home Office guidance and seek professional advice where needed. Early preparation is essential to ensure you meet the requirements and deadlines of your placement.
Sponsors and applicants should also remain mindful of ongoing compliance duties throughout the duration of the visa, including reporting responsibilities and adherence to visa conditions.
Section H: Government Authorised Exchange Visa FAQs
What is the Government Authorised Exchange Visa?
The Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa is a temporary UK work visa that allows overseas nationals to participate in structured, government-approved programmes. These include work experience placements, training, research opportunities, fellowships, and Overseas Government Language Programmes.
How long can I stay in the UK on a GAE visa?
The permitted length of stay depends on your programme. Most work experience and training placements are capped at 12 months, while research, fellowship, and language programmes can last for up to 24 months. The visa includes a short additional period before and after the placement.
Can I bring my dependants with me?
Yes. Partners and dependent children under 18 may apply to join or remain with you in the UK. They must apply separately, meet financial and relationship requirements, and pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
Can I work in the UK on this visa?
You can work only in the role specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship under the approved programme. In addition, you may take a second job of up to 20 hours per week in a role on the Immigration Salary List. Other forms of employment are not permitted.
Do I need to meet an English language requirement?
No. There is no English language requirement for the Government Authorised Exchange visa. However, applicants undertaking certain research roles at higher education institutions may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
How much money do I need to show?
You must demonstrate that you have at least £1,270 in personal savings, held for 28 consecutive days, unless your sponsor confirms on the Certificate of Sponsorship that they will meet your costs.
What are the application fees?
The application fee is £319 per applicant. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, currently £1,035 per year of permission granted. Optional priority services are available for an additional cost.
Can the GAE visa lead to settlement in the UK?
No. The GAE visa is a temporary route and does not count towards indefinite leave to remain. It is designed only for short-term exchange purposes.
How long does the application process take?
Most applications made outside the UK are processed within three weeks. In-country extensions usually take up to eight weeks. Priority and super-priority services may be available in some locations for faster decisions.
What happens if my application is refused?
If your application is refused, you will receive a letter from the Home Office explaining the reasons. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to reapply or seek an administrative review. It is important to resolve any issues identified before submitting a fresh application.
Section J: Useful Links (Resources)
| Resource | Link |
|---|---|
| Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa: overview, eligibility, apply, extend, dependants | GOV.UK – Government Authorised Exchange (Temporary Work) |
| Immigration Rules: Appendix Temporary Work – Government Authorised Exchange | GOV.UK – Immigration Rules Appendix: GAE |
| Workers & Temporary Workers: Guidance for Sponsors – Sponsor a Government Authorised Exchange Worker | GOV.UK – Sponsor guidance (GAE) |
| Temporary Work: caseworker guidance (Home Office) | GOV.UK – Temporary Work caseworker guidance (PDF) |
| Immigration Health Surcharge: how much you pay | GOV.UK – IHS amounts |
| Home Office immigration and nationality fees (current) | GOV.UK – Visa fees table |
| Visa application fees calculator (applications made outside the UK) | GOV.UK – Visa fees tool |
| Immigration Rules: Appendix ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) | GOV.UK – Appendix ATAS |
| Government Authorised Exchange Visa – specialist guide | DavidsonMorris – Government Authorised Exchange Visa |
| Government Authorised Exchange Visa – applicant guidance | Xpats.io – Government Authorised Exchange Visa |
