Global Talent: Fashion & Design / Digital Technology

Fashion, design, and digital technology routes

Global Talent covers fashion and design (often via British Fashion Council) and digital technology (via an approved tech endorsing body). Each field has tailored endorsement criteria.

Who may qualify

You may qualify if you show exceptional talent or exceptional promise in product design, fashion, or digital tech — for example leadership in scaling startups, significant open-source impact, or recognised design work.

Flexible work in the UK

Successful applicants may work employed or self-employed, subject to conditions. Many founders use Global Talent instead of sponsorship.

Tech sector evidence

For digital technology, evidence may include product metrics, investment, patents, open-source contributions, and expert letters from senior industry figures.

Fashion and design evidence

Collections, shows, brand traction, press, and industry awards support fashion and design endorsement applications.

Endorsement body requirements

Each endorser publishes criteria — applications must map evidence directly to those points rather than relying on CV length alone.

How to apply

Apply to the relevant endorsing body first, then submit the Global Talent visa application online with your endorsement letter and passport. Biometrics are required.

Costs & processing time

Endorsement review fees and visa application fees apply separately and may change as of 2026. Immigration Health Surcharge is usually payable on the visa unless exempt.

Common reasons applications are refused

• Evidence not showing exceptional talent or promise for the sub-field

• Wrong endorsing body or outdated application pathway

• Letters not from recognised independent experts

• Commercial traction claims unsupported by data

• Visa application filed with expired endorsement

Related guidance: Arts, Culture & Architecture, Science, Engineering & Medicine, and Settlement & ILR.