Do I need to have already worked for my employer before applying for a Graduate Trainee visa?

This route is specifically for employees being transferred to the UK as part of a structured graduate training programme. You must already be an employee of the Home Office-approved sponsor.

Crucially, you need to have worked for that sponsor outside the UK for at least 3 months immediately before your application. If you have not yet built up that 3-month period with the overseas business, you will not qualify, even if you have a job offer in the UK.