A talented and promising fashion designer wishing to work in the UK can apply for a Global Talent visa. Applicants must be determined by the British Fashion Council. The Global Talent Fashion visa category applies to individuals who work as leading designers, not as other jobs within the fashion industry. There is no cap on the number of applicants per year.
To qualify for endorsement, you must be able to show significant performance in at least one country. Evidence should be presented, including achievements as a designer, media awareness, award nominees, support or sponsorship, recognition by industry leaders, international distribution and sales, and participation in fashion shows.
Catwalk shows, presentations and exhibitions
Applicants may present them as evidence if they have attended a catwalk show, presentation or exhibition recognised as internationally important in the fashion field.
Media Recognition
At least two important international media recognition in the fashion sector should be secured. Media awareness can be online, major blogs, or printouts such as broadcasting, articles, and/or reviews. Evidence must be made in at least two countries, and evidence of internationally assessed recognition in other countries other than yours must be submitted.
Awards
The applicant can provide evidence that they have won or been nominated/shortlisted for or made an important and direct contribution to winning at least one international award to demonstrate the excellence as a designer.
Examples of suitable international awards for excellence would include: The Fashion Awards, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Fashion Awards, the Elle Style Award, the GQ Award, the LVMH Prize, the ANDAM Prize, Hyères Prize. Other relevant major awards or nominations may also be considered.
Proof of distribution and sales
Applicants may submit evidence of their international distribution and sales through internationally renowned retailers and boutiques, or their retailers or e-commerce platforms.
Evidence of sponsorship
Applicants can submit evidence if they have been sponsored by an organisation as excellent designers or designers in the fashion field. They can demonstrate that they are supported by the British Fashion Council (BFC) support scheme, the Fashion East support scheme, or the Sarabande Foundation. In addition, if they have received sponsorship from their home country's fashion committee or other sponsoring organizations, they can provide proof.
Industry Recognition
Applicants have a good graduation collection and can present evidence recognized by industry leaders. Industry leaders include internationally renowned fashion designers, fashion media, retailers, brands, and Graduate Fashion Week.
Referees
The three letters of recommendation will be needed to support the application. The letter of recommendation must be received from established organisations, institutions or companies with a national or international reputation and recognised expertise in fashion.
The letter should come from a senior member of the organisation who can comment on the applicant's performance. They will need to describe in detail the achievements in the area of expertise and how the applicant can demonstrate the potential to become a leader in the fashion field.
Visa application
The endorsement letter will be valid for three months and the visa application can be made to enter or remain in the UK in the Global Talent category.
Anyone who is not granted to leave in the UK will need to ensure that they are abroad when they make their Global Talent visa application. However, the application can be made from anywhere in the world, so you do not necessarily have to travel to your home country to make the application.
There is no maintenance or English language requirement in the Global Talent visa category.
Leave will be granted for the period that you request (in full-year periods) up to five years.
ARIS Lawyers has a variety of experiences helping professional designers in the fashion industry to prepare successful applications for endorsement by the British Fashion Council and work in the UK. We will guide you through complex immigration rules and policies for fashion designers and provide clear and reliable advice.