#mountbattenlife

Visa

The visa framework for your UK placement

Once your placement is secured, the visa process is the next practical step. We manage the sponsorship side so you can focus on preparing for your role. Our team will guide you through every stage clearly and efficiently.

Government Authorised Exchange Visa

Mountbatten is an A-rated sponsor for the UK’s Temporary Work – Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) visa. This is the visa category under which all Mountbatten participants work in the UK, and our status as a registered sponsor means we are authorized to issue the documentation you need to apply.

The GAE visa enables you to undertake a professional work placement in the UK for up to 12 months, providing sufficient time to make a genuine impact in your role, build experience within the UK professional environment, and settle into life in your chosen city.

How the UK Visa Sponsorship Process Works

  • Confirm Your Placement

    The visa process begins once your placement has been offered and verified. This includes confirmation that the placement complies with UK wage and regulatory requirements and meets the program’s eligibility criteria.

  • Paperwork and Sponsorship Documents

    Once your placement is confirmed, we will work with your host organization to coordinate all required paperwork. As your visa sponsor, Mountbatten will issue your Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is required to apply for the visa.

  • Your Visa Application

    With your Certificate of Sponsorship issued, you will complete the online visa application and attend an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to submit your application. We will guide you through each stage of the process, ensuring you understand what is required and feel fully prepared at every step.

  • You’re Ready to Go

    Once your visa is approved, we’ll support you as you prepare for your arrival in the UK.

A Few Things to Know

  • Visa issuance is subject to approval by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
  • Processing times can vary — we recommend beginning the process as early as possible once your placement is confirmed
  • Visa application fees and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) are not included in the Sponsorship Fee — see our Fees page for a full breakdown of costs to budget for