According to Tech Nation, UK tech visa applications have seen a 45% increase between 2018 and 2019.
A large number of these applications are coming from India and the US in sectors such as software development, AI and fintech.
This year marks the fifth consecutive year-on-year growth of applications for the Tech Visa as worldwide talent continue to be attracted to the UK tech sector.
Margot James MP, Minister for Digital and the Creative Industries, said: “The UK continues to attract talent from all around the world.
“This is thanks to our world-leading academic institutions, strong access to finance and long standing reputation for innovation.
“Making sure we have the talent and skills so the tech sector can continue its incredible growth, is a priority of our modern industrial strategy.
“Following the publication of the Immigration White Paper, the Home Office have also launched the new startup and innovator routes as part of Tier 1 to attract the brightest tech entrepreneurs.
“We are determined to ensure the tech sector has access to the talent that it needs.”
The UK tech visa was first launched in 2014, enabling global tech talent to work in the UK’s digital technology sector.
Caroline Nokes MP, Minister of State for Immigration, said: “The tech industry is vital to the UK economy and I am encouraged to see that there has been an increase in the number of visas issued to people investing in the UK and choosing to start a business here.
“We announced the new Start-up and Innovator visa to enhance the UK’s visa offer to leading international talent and I am determined to see this continue as we leave the EU and introduce a skills-based immigration system.”
Matt Jeffs-Watts, Head of Visas at Tech Nation, added: “The UK tech sector is an incredibly attractive place to work, with its unparalleled connectivity, access to exceptional talent, and significant levels of innovation and investment.
“It is this level of talent and skill that will help in the UK keeping its position at the forefront of the global digital economy.”
