How I Got My Tech Nation Endorsement: My Global Talent Visa Journey

A personal story of securing the Tech Nation endorsement for the Global Talent Visa.

Published on January 22, 2025 by Jonas

The Beginning: Why I Chose the Global Talent Visa

When I first heard about the Global Talent Visa in the UK, I was skeptical. Could I, a product manager in fintech, really qualify for a visa designed for "exceptional talent"? It sounded like something reserved for elite engineers, renowned academics, or startup unicorn founders. But as I dug deeper into Tech Nation’s endorsement criteria, I realized that my experience—leading open banking initiatives, driving product strategy, and working with regulators—was exactly what they were looking for.

The Global Talent Visa offered something no other visa did: freedom. No employer sponsorship, no work restrictions, and the ability to build my own business if I wanted to. That sealed the deal—I was going to apply.

Step 1: Understanding the Tech Nation Criteria

Before I started collecting documents, I had to figure out where I stood against Tech Nation’s expectations. The endorsement process is rigorous—it’s not just about proving you’re good at your job; it’s about demonstrating leadership in the UK’s digital technology sector.

Tech Nation applicants must fulfill:

• One Mandatory Criterion: Demonstrate leadership in digital technology.
• Two Optional Criteria: Choose from innovation, impact, outside contributions, or academic work.

I quickly saw that my product leadership in fintech aligned with:

• Mandatory Criterion: My leadership role in expanding open banking.
• Optional Criterion 1: A proven track record of innovation in financial technology.
• Optional Criterion 2: Recognition beyond my job (speaking engagements, thought leadership, and press mentions).

Step 2: Gathering the Evidence

This was the most challenging part. I had to curate and present a compelling story—one that made Tech Nation’s assessors recognize my impact on the tech ecosystem.

1. Leadership in Digital Technology

• Employment & Salary Evidence: Demonstrating a strong track record in fintech product leadership.
• Market Impact: Data showcasing how my work contributed to growth and adoption.
• Speaking Engagements: Public presentations and panel discussions highlighting my industry expertise.

2. Innovation in Fintech

• Project Documentation: Detailed records of initiatives I led that introduced new technologies or processes.
• Impact Metrics: Measurable outcomes of my contributions, such as increased efficiency, adoption, or revenue.
• Technical Contributions: Evidence of strategic product decisions that shaped the industry landscape.

3. Contribution Beyond Work

• Thought Leadership: Published articles, blogs, and insights on fintech trends.
• Press Mentions: Coverage in industry publications highlighting my contributions.
• Mentorship & Community Engagement: Involvement in knowledge-sharing initiatives and advisory roles.

Step 3: Writing the Personal Statement

The personal statement was my opportunity to tell my story—not just as a list of achievements but as a compelling narrative. It had to answer:

1. Why do I want to work in the UK?
2. What impact will I have on the UK’s tech industry?
3. How do I meet Tech Nation’s criteria?

I made sure it wasn’t robotic. Instead, I wrote it like a journey, illustrating my passion for fintech, my drive to innovate, and my vision for contributing to the UK’s thriving tech ecosystem.

Step 4: Submission & The Unexpected Surprise

After weeks of refining my application, I submitted it online via Tech Nation’s portal. The official processing time was up to eight weeks, so I prepared myself for a long wait.

To my complete surprise, just three days later, I received an email:

“Your Tech Nation Endorsement has been approved.”

I had mentally prepared for weeks of uncertainty, but the decision came almost immediately. The speed of the response only amplified my excitement—I had secured my Tech Nation endorsement much faster than expected!

Lessons from the Process

• Be Selective with Evidence: If a piece of evidence doesn’t explicitly prove a Tech Nation criterion, don’t include it.
• Clarity is Key: The assessors review hundreds of applications. Make it easy for them to see why you deserve the endorsement.
• Tech Nation Looks for Impact: It’s not just about having a good career—it’s about shaping the future of tech.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re considering applying for the Global Talent Visa, here’s my advice:

• If you have a strong case—apply. You don’t need to be a “celebrity” in tech; you just need to prove impact and leadership.
• Take the time to craft your story. It’s not just about listing achievements; it’s about making the assessors believe in your potential.
• Seek feedback. Get insights from mentors, colleagues, or consultants who have gone through the process.

For me, getting the Tech Nation Endorsement changed everything. It gave me the freedom to explore new opportunities, work with top-tier fintech companies, and even start my own venture.

If you’re considering it, go for it. The process is challenging, but if you’re a true innovator, leader, or entrepreneur in tech—you belong in the UK.