More than 100 research-intensive businesses are to be able to support international scientists and engineers to live and work in the UK under an expansion of the Global Talent visa.
The government announced the change on Thursday, saying it would allow commercial research companies to host exceptional researchers working on funded projects. The route had already been available through approved universities, academic bodies and independent research institutes.
The expanded pathway includes major firms such as AstraZeneca and Jaguar Land Rover, as well as smaller and fast-growing innovators. The government also named Added Value Solutions, Denroy Plastics and Ffilm Cymru among businesses expected to be involved.
Ministers said the move is intended to bring leading research talent into areas including clean energy, life sciences and artificial intelligence. The government linked the expansion to efforts to help innovative companies grow, remain in the UK and support skilled jobs.
The endorsed funder pathway has already helped more than 12,500 people from more than 130 countries build research careers in Britain, according to the announcement. The Global Talent visa recognises people at different career stages, including through fast-track routes for leading academic appointments, competitive fellowships and named roles on funded research grants.
The government said a peer-review pathway also remains available for established or potential research leaders who do not hold an eligible appointment, fellowship or grant. It said the latest change means commercial research businesses can now sit alongside universities and research institutes in supporting eligible applicants.