I worked in R&D at both startups and large companies, focusing on innovations in networks, compilers, and operating systems. For a while, I planned to do a PhD at Purdue University in the US, but visa difficulties got in the way. Instead, I shifted my plans and moved to the UK on a Global Talent visa.
I wanted to be in a country where science and business thrive, and the UK stood out as the right place. What really convinced me, though, was seeing several of my friends successfully take the GTV route—it showed me the process was realistic and worthwhile.
What stood out to me was the ability to get residency right away for five years, which gave me stability and flexibility. I was even able to switch from a work visa to the GTV without leaving the UK, which made the process much smoother. Overall, it’s one of the most convenient and cost-effective residency options in the developed world.
Another big factor was timing—unlike US visas, the GTV can be processed in a short and predictable timeframe, which makes planning your future much easier.
Immigram was already known in my circles as one of the go-to services for Global Talent visas, and they’d also become more widely recognized after the story about the withdrawn startup competition prize. For me, the collaboration started quite simply: once I decided to apply for the GTV, I went to their website and filled out the questionnaire to get the process moving.
I focused on presenting my work in a way that created clear, tangible evidence—things like recorded talks, published articles, and other materials that could demonstrate impact.
The process itself isn’t particularly difficult, but it does take time and persistence. In many ways, it felt similar to writing a grant application: you need to package your achievements convincingly and show your value.
Getting the visa allowed me to live and work in London, which has been the best city I’ve lived in so far. The business and tech communities here are very vibrant, and as a result, I regularly receive new opportunities for collaboration and projects.
For example, I now regularly touch base with colleagues at UK AISI, Google DeepMind, or Apollo Research—something that’s so much easier when we’re in the same city.
I’d suggest setting aside about six weeks of focused work and budgeting around $20K for the process. And start as early as you can—the earlier you begin, the smoother it will be. Having the visa opens up so many opportunities, and it’s definitely much better than not having it.
