The Global Talent visa will be open from February 20 to those who work in a qualifying field and have been endorsed by a recognised UK body, affirms an eminent news channel. The new visa system will be managed by the UK Research and Innovation Agency (UKRI), which funds government research. This is to ensure that suitable applicants will be quickly assessed and fast-tracked.
Johnson, in an announcement on Sunday, said the UK “has a proud history of scientific discovery, but to lead the field and face the challenges of the future we need to continue to invest in talent and cutting-edge research. That is why as we leave the EU (European Union) I want to send a message that the UK is open to the most talented minds in the world, and stand ready to support them to turn their ideas into reality."
Also Read: US amends visa norms on 'birth tourism' for pregnant women, restrictions imposed
The decision is followed by Johnson pledge last month to turn the UK into a “supercharged magnet to attract scientists like iron filings”.
EU researchers account for about half of the total UK scientific workforce of 211,000, as per news report. Presently, they do not need visas to work in British labs.
But freedom of movement between the UK and EU is expected to terminate after the Brexit transition period on December 31, 2020. The country is scheduled to exit the bloc at 11 p.m. on Friday.
Meanwhile, Indian-origin Professor Venki Ramakrishnan, President of the Royal Society, welcomed Johnson announcement, saying the new visa would be “attractive” to talented researchers and specialists from all over the world and at all stages of their careers.
“It sends out a positive message that the UK is committed to remaining open to overseas science talent who would collaborate with our outstanding home-grown minds,” he said.
The head of UK Research and Innovation, Professor Mark Walport, said: “Today announcements further underline the importance of research and innovation to the future success of the UK and the government continued commitment and investment”.