Our goal is to create the perfect portfolio to support your successful Global Talent Visa UK application.
Over 150 approved portfolios since 2022
ARCHITECTURE
INTERIOR DESIGN
URBAN PLANNING
CLASSICAL MUSIC: COMPOSERS AND PERFORMERS
CONTEMPORARY MUSIC – ALL GENRES
DJs
MUSIC PRODUCERS
SOUND ART
PAINTING
PHOTOGRAPHY
VIDEO ART
INSTALLATIONS
PERFORMANCE
SCULPTURE
DIGITAL ART
CERAMICS
MIXED MEDIA
GRAPHIC DESIGN
CURATORS
ART PRODUCERS
ART DIRECTORS
DANCE
THEATRE
LITERATURE
We are here to help.
Our team works with creative professionals. We assist in selecting your strongest projects, showcasing them on various art platforms, and preparing your CV, cover letters, and other evidence of your talent.
Our team works with creative professionals. We assist in selecting your strongest projects, showcasing them on various art platforms, and preparing your CV, cover letters, and other evidence of your talent.
Generic applications are a common reason for rejection.
That’s why we don’t follow a template — we take a tailored approach, grounded in a deep understanding of your artistic practice and professional vision.
That’s why we don’t follow a template — we take a tailored approach, grounded in a deep understanding of your artistic practice and professional vision.
— Struggling to understand the Arts Council UK guidelines?
— Worried whether your projects are suitable?
— Taken part in exhibitions but unsure which ones to include?
— Been rejected and want to try again — with confidence this time?
— Worried whether your projects are suitable?
— Taken part in exhibitions but unsure which ones to include?
— Been rejected and want to try again — with confidence this time?
We are not lawyers. We are art managers.
We work in collaboration with an immigration adviser who handles the visa application processes. Everything is legal and transparent.
We work in collaboration with an immigration adviser who handles the visa application processes. Everything is legal and transparent.
We are not lawyers. We are art managers.
We work in collaboration with an immigration adviser who handles the visa application processes. Everything is legal and transparent.
We work in collaboration with an immigration adviser who handles the visa application processes. Everything is legal and transparent.
Our responsibilities include:
— Analysing and structuring your artistic practice
— Developing a tailored application strategy
— Selecting and presenting projects and publications
— Curating participation in exhibitions and competitions
— Drafting reference letters
— Editing and formatting your CV
— Translating, certifying, and compiling documents
— Preparing the complete application package
— Developing a tailored application strategy
— Selecting and presenting projects and publications
— Curating participation in exhibitions and competitions
— Drafting reference letters
— Editing and formatting your CV
— Translating, certifying, and compiling documents
— Preparing the complete application package
The immigration adviser is responsible for:
— Preparing the application form
— Reviewing visa forms
— Submitting the visa application (UKVI)
— Providing support with biometrics and visa processing
— Reviewing visa forms
— Submitting the visa application (UKVI)
— Providing support with biometrics and visa processing
Everything is coordinated. You get a streamlined journey from your creative achievements to visa.
How to build a successful Global Talent portfolio in Arts OR Architecture?
Watch the video:
Watch the video:
WHAT SERVICIES DO WE PROVIDE
[1]
GLOBAL TALENT CASE REVIEW
60-minute Zoom session
3-month support program
A tailored visa application strategy from the founders of Fog2Fame.
We’ll review your journey, choose the right endorsement track, identify suitable projects and referees, and outline a clear action plan — based on 150+ successful cases.
We’ll review your journey, choose the right endorsement track, identify suitable projects and referees, and outline a clear action plan — based on 150+ successful cases.
YOU WILL WALK AWAY WITH:
— A clear roadmap: what to do, how, and when
— Full understanding of timelines and required investment
— A clear roadmap: what to do, how, and when
— Full understanding of timelines and required investment
£250
[2]
MENTORSHIP: YOUR PERSONAL PORTFOLIO GUIDE
For those who prefer to prepare their portfolio independently — but with professional guidance. We’ll help you shape every element to meet Arts Council UK standards, from project selection to final review.
INCLUDES:
— 2 Zoom sessions
— Direct chat with your art manager
— Ongoing Q&A support
— Checking all texts selecting projects
— Final review of your full application package
— 2 Zoom sessions
— Direct chat with your art manager
— Ongoing Q&A support
— Checking all texts selecting projects
— Final review of your full application package
£2950
End-to-end support until submission
[3]
BESPOKE: FULL CASE MANAGEMENT
For those who want to delegate the entire case preparation process to a team of professionals.
We handle everything — from strategy to final assembly — including publications, exhibitions, translations, and written materials.
We handle everything — from strategy to final assembly — including publications, exhibitions, translations, and written materials.
INCLUDES:
— A tailored strategy for your case
— Research and coordination of publications, awards, and exhibitions
— Drafting of recommendation letters and all supporting documents
— Translation and certification of materials
— Final compilation and formatting of your portfolio
— A tailored strategy for your case
— Research and coordination of publications, awards, and exhibitions
— Drafting of recommendation letters and all supporting documents
— Translation and certification of materials
— Final compilation and formatting of your portfolio
£4450 - £7970
This amount is deducted from the cost of Mentorship or BESPOKE if you decide to move forward with us after the session.
Over 150 successful portfolios
these artists have already completed this journey with us, and their stories prove that our approach truly works
— Elizaveta Avtushenko, content creator, artist
As an emerging artist, I constantly doubted myself — was I too inexperienced, were my works good enough? But Inessa helped me not only to present my portfolio properly, but also to believe in myself. I realised that the true value lies in an honest story, not in "titles". My ten-year dream to live and work in London has come true. It's more than just a visa — it's a whole new scale.
The flagship project in my portfolio was a team effort — my name wasn’t mentioned anywhere. I didn’t know if that would be acceptable. During the first call, we went through how to present it in detail. Everything was explained to me, and I was guided through the process step by step. I didn’t understand anything about the paperwork — and I didn’t need to. I just did what I was told, and now I live in London.
— Nikita Mironov, video artist, cinematographer
I wasn’t sure if I even qualified for the Global Talent route in the arts. I’m a designer, not a traditional artist. But after the consultation, everything fell into place — your approach gave me clarity and confidence. We structured my experience, built the case, completed a few new projects, and the portfolio was successful, even for Exceptional Talent route. In London, I feel like part of a creative community where there is support and growth.
— Anna Katsur, creative director
I didn’t understand what kind of evidence was needed or how the whole process was supposed to be put together. The wording on official websites was impenetrable, I didn’t have enough publications, and I had no idea where to start. The most valuable thing was having someone by my side who knew my field, spoke my language, and at the same time clearly understood how to structure such cases. We put everything together step by step, and I wouldn’t have managed it without that help.
— Anna Sukhaia, architect/ interior designer
You helped make my dream come true! The case was put together quickly and professionally, step by step and without stress. If you don’t want to waste your nerves or worry about the outcome — I highly recommend working with Irina and Inessa.
— Lu Chirkova, director (music video), art director
Incredibly grateful for the professionalism and thoughtful approach to my case. There were several aspects that could be presented in different ways, and you chose the best option. And of course, the psychological support was invaluable too! In short, I received both professional expertise and comfortable communication — which, I think, is the perfect match.
— Marta Lisovskaia, curator
Consultations with Irina were like a beam of light through the fog of questions. Many of her tips and recommendations turned out to be crucial in preparing the documents. Her friendly support during the tough moments of waiting deserves special thanks!
— Artemii, digital art
Saved me a million hours of researching visa requirements, a million nerves on putting the case together, and patiently answered two million of my questions along the way. In short, I’m really glad I asked for help — and I didn’t need to apply a second time.
— Max Yarushin, musician
At first, the Global Talent visa felt like an unreachable mountain, and I didn’t believe I could climb it. But thanks to your help, that mountain turned into a clear route, and I was guided along it with confidence and care. You didn’t just help me gather and prepare the documents — you were there at every stage, offering support and keeping my spirits up. Thank you so much for your swift work, motivation, and encouragement!
— Alice Russo photographer
When I came in, there was almost no time — everything had to be done before my Graduate visa expired. It seemed impossible. But Inessa responded immediately, and we planned everything out day by day. We moved in sync, in one smooth flow — and built the case in just 25 days. As a result, I got the visa and was able to continue my acting career with a new status, without even leaving the country!
— Savva Lagashkin, theatre and film actor
Huge thanks to Irina for helping me put my portfolio together properly — and I received the Global Talent visa. I was in total panic and completely confused about which aspects of my creative work needed to be highlighted. Irina also helped a lot with the visual presentation of the final documents, which made a massive difference. The Arts Council are people too, and it’s crucial that from the very first second they know where to look and which details of the case matter most. I never would have managed on my own! Thank you so much again!
— Vadim Yatsun, photographer
I turned to Irina for help with the Global Talent visa as a theatre producer. It was incredibly comfortable working with her — I was very anxious, but Ira was supportive, helped gather all the documents, translate them, and prepare the case. I spent minimal time and effort and received a ready-to-upload package for GOV.UK. I wasn’t expecting much, but in the end, I received a Promise of Talent. I wholeheartedly recommend Irina — she’s amazing!
— Anastasia Vankova, theatre producer
This was an extremely positive experience.
Right from the start, everything was explained clearly, calmly, and honestly — that the process might not be easy and would require patience. That helped me get into the right mindset and understand that Irina knows what she’s doing, is honest about it, and everything would go smoothly.
It was very comfortable to work together: all my questions were answered clearly, we always knew what stage we were at, even if there were slight shifts in timing.
And the case turned out to be more than successful (with minimal effort on my part), for which I’m incredibly grateful to Irina. The endorsement came through straight away!
Right from the start, everything was explained clearly, calmly, and honestly — that the process might not be easy and would require patience. That helped me get into the right mindset and understand that Irina knows what she’s doing, is honest about it, and everything would go smoothly.
It was very comfortable to work together: all my questions were answered clearly, we always knew what stage we were at, even if there were slight shifts in timing.
And the case turned out to be more than successful (with minimal effort on my part), for which I’m incredibly grateful to Irina. The endorsement came through straight away!
— Valeria, photographer
At the consultation, Inessa said to me, “So what are you waiting for? You’re talented, you can do this.” And that was it — things took off. I’d never connected myself with London or the art world — it all felt distant, like it wasn’t for me. But suddenly, everything seemed incredibly simple. You go: is this difficult? No, it just needs to be done. And so it got done. Three years after moving — a complete turnaround: before, photo and video were content for clients, and now — it’s art, it’s film. The move and the visa gave me the energy to grow, and I’ve made a short film, fashion clips, a project for RAY BAN, an expedition to Antarctica, and worked on projects with UAL and SIMS. It all started with that first spark of energy — forward!
— George Kashcheev, cinematographer, photographer
The hardest part for me was getting the first letter of recommendation. It just so happened that I was performing at an event by a British music company, and they agreed to support me. Inessa helped me find the right approach to the referee and highlight our collaboration effectively. I communicated with the referee myself, but under her careful guidance — and it paid off: the letter was signed by the founder of a British company that runs concerts in over 400 cities worldwide. My case was awarded Exceptional Talent!
— Max Viner, singer-songwriter
I hesitated for a long time — whether to try on my own or go to lawyers. But I knew that in the UK, paperwork has to be extremely clear: structure, wording, presentation. The lawyers felt too “general” — it was important to have someone who actually understood the art world. After a consultation with Inessa, it became clear what from my experience would work and what wouldn’t. In the end, we built a strong case, and I got the visa. Everything was focused and stress-free.
— Polina Epinatyeva, curator
I saw a friend — also a musician — had moved to the UK on a Global Talent visa, and thought: why not me? But I honestly didn’t believe I had a strong enough case — I’d never applied for anything like this and just couldn’t tell if I really had a shot. What really stayed with me was when Inessa said: “You should go straight for Exceptional Talent.” That flipped something — I suddenly felt confident. And in the end — that’s exactly the category I was approved for.
— Andrey Kuznetsov, musician
It was a real pleasure and very comfortable to work together. We quickly gathered and prepared all the documents.
— VELLY, digital art
FAQ
1. Official UK Contract
Legal protection and a non-disclosure agreement
2. Ultra-fast timelines – average 4 months
Expedited options from 1 to 2 months available in select cases
The fastest results on the market
3. Weekly updates
You’re always informed about your case’s progress
4. Collaboration with immigration lawyers
Dual support: art management + immigration expertise
5. Transparent and flexible pricing
You choose only the services you need — no hidden fees
6.Strong evidence level
A quality case starts with a solid level of events and publications
7. Convenient communication — via messenger
Support via messenger during working hours: fast and easy communication
8. 150+ successful cases – 97% approval on the first try
Proven track record of experience and results
9.We speak the language of artists
We come from the industry — we understand you instantly
10. Solutions tailored to current realities
We constantly monitor guideline updates and adjust our work accordingly
Legal protection and a non-disclosure agreement
2. Ultra-fast timelines – average 4 months
Expedited options from 1 to 2 months available in select cases
The fastest results on the market
3. Weekly updates
You’re always informed about your case’s progress
4. Collaboration with immigration lawyers
Dual support: art management + immigration expertise
5. Transparent and flexible pricing
You choose only the services you need — no hidden fees
6.Strong evidence level
A quality case starts with a solid level of events and publications
7. Convenient communication — via messenger
Support via messenger during working hours: fast and easy communication
8. 150+ successful cases – 97% approval on the first try
Proven track record of experience and results
9.We speak the language of artists
We come from the industry — we understand you instantly
10. Solutions tailored to current realities
We constantly monitor guideline updates and adjust our work accordingly
The Arts Council has clear categories, outlined in detail in the official guidance. (you can download a pdf of the latest guide here)
We’ll help you identify the most strategic path for your application, based on your unique creative journey.
In some cases, it’s possible to apply under Combined Arts — if your work genuinely spans multiple disciplines (e.g. visual art + performance + music) and you have strong achievements in each area.
📌 However, these cases are rare and require a carefully planned strategy.
We don’t recommend applying under Combined Arts on your own, because:
We’ll help you identify the most strategic path for your application, based on your unique creative journey.
In some cases, it’s possible to apply under Combined Arts — if your work genuinely spans multiple disciplines (e.g. visual art + performance + music) and you have strong achievements in each area.
📌 However, these cases are rare and require a carefully planned strategy.
We don’t recommend applying under Combined Arts on your own, because:
- It’s easy to introduce confusion into your case by combining weaker or unrelated fields
- You may unintentionally weaken the overall strength of your portfolio, even if you have solid evidence in one discipline
🏆 Exceptional Talent – for established professionals
This route is designed for individuals who have already achieved sustained international success and enjoy a high level of recognition in their field.
🔹 International recognition is essential: your impact and activity must be demonstrated in at least two countries
🔹 Required evidence includes: prestigious publications, awards, participation in renowned festivals, exhibitions, theatre productions, and other major events
🔹 Eligible for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the UK after 3 years — this is the fastest route available
📌 Important to understand:
Events of this calibre are highly competitive. Gaining access without existing international connections and reputation is extremely difficult.
We work with applicants on the Exceptional Talent route only if their careers already meet these criteria.
For all others, the Exceptional Promise category may be more appropriate.
Exceptional Promise – for Emerging Talent with Potential
This category is open to a wide range of creative professionals who are on the path to leadership but have not yet gained major international recognition.
🔹 International recognition is not required
🔹 Local projects, online initiatives, collaborations, regional festivals, and group exhibitions are all acceptable
🔹 Eligible for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the UK after 5 years
🎯 For applicants on the Promise track, we offer active support:
🔹 We help identify relevant exhibitions, competitions, art platforms, and awards that can strengthen your portfolio
🔹 We assist with securing publications and media publications — through submitting your work to the relevant industry media
🔹 We help facilitate real collaborations with UK-based art organisations — either online or in person — to meet the requirement for at least one UK-based reference letter
👉 Promise is a more realistic and achievable route.
With our support, applicants have successfully built strong cases — even while working in local contexts — as long as they show commitment, results, and a drive to take their portfolio to the next level.
This route is designed for individuals who have already achieved sustained international success and enjoy a high level of recognition in their field.
🔹 International recognition is essential: your impact and activity must be demonstrated in at least two countries
🔹 Required evidence includes: prestigious publications, awards, participation in renowned festivals, exhibitions, theatre productions, and other major events
🔹 Eligible for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the UK after 3 years — this is the fastest route available
📌 Important to understand:
Events of this calibre are highly competitive. Gaining access without existing international connections and reputation is extremely difficult.
We work with applicants on the Exceptional Talent route only if their careers already meet these criteria.
For all others, the Exceptional Promise category may be more appropriate.
Exceptional Promise – for Emerging Talent with Potential
This category is open to a wide range of creative professionals who are on the path to leadership but have not yet gained major international recognition.
🔹 International recognition is not required
🔹 Local projects, online initiatives, collaborations, regional festivals, and group exhibitions are all acceptable
🔹 Eligible for ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) in the UK after 5 years
🎯 For applicants on the Promise track, we offer active support:
🔹 We help identify relevant exhibitions, competitions, art platforms, and awards that can strengthen your portfolio
🔹 We assist with securing publications and media publications — through submitting your work to the relevant industry media
🔹 We help facilitate real collaborations with UK-based art organisations — either online or in person — to meet the requirement for at least one UK-based reference letter
👉 Promise is a more realistic and achievable route.
With our support, applicants have successfully built strong cases — even while working in local contexts — as long as they show commitment, results, and a drive to take their portfolio to the next level.
Between 5 and 10 pieces of evidence across three categories (articles, awards, participation in projects),
We will help you analyse your case, select the strongest evidence, and structure the package to maximise your chances of approval.
You can do this through our mentorship programme or with full bespoke support.
- 3 reference letters
- CV
- Contribution letters (if applicable)
We will help you analyse your case, select the strongest evidence, and structure the package to maximise your chances of approval.
You can do this through our mentorship programme or with full bespoke support.
🔹 Media Recognition refers to critical articles and reviews of your work published in reputable, industry-specific media outlets.
🔹 Proof of Appearance includes any form of confirmation of your participation in a project — such as catalogues, posters, event announcements, online exhibitions, email correspondence, screenshots, certificates, photos, and more.
We offer a full audit of your materials and help highlight the most compelling evidence.
🔹 Proof of Appearance includes any form of confirmation of your participation in a project — such as catalogues, posters, event announcements, online exhibitions, email correspondence, screenshots, certificates, photos, and more.
We offer a full audit of your materials and help highlight the most compelling evidence.
A Letter of Support refers to the 3 mandatory reference letters required by the Arts Council, each of which must meet strict criteria.
Failure to comply with even one of the 15 outlined requirements can result in a refusal — regardless of your other achievements.
🔹 Who can be a referee?
The letter must be signed by a director or senior representative of an organisation that:
The second can be from any country.
The third can also be from any country — or from a respected professional with a strong CV.
📌 We provide support by:
Preparing an editable draft of the letter, which the referee can simply approve or revise.
This approach is both practical and ethical.
Failure to comply with even one of the 15 outlined requirements can result in a refusal — regardless of your other achievements.
🔹 Who can be a referee?
The letter must be signed by a director or senior representative of an organisation that:
- Has existed for at least 3 years (based on our experience);
- Has a strong reputation and relevant expertise in your field (e.g., a gallery for an artist, a theatre for an actor);
- Can confirm a collaborative project with you — it doesn’t have to be commercial, in-person, or even based in the same country.
The second can be from any country.
The third can also be from any country — or from a respected professional with a strong CV.
📌 We provide support by:
Preparing an editable draft of the letter, which the referee can simply approve or revise.
This approach is both practical and ethical.
No — platforms like Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and other social media are not considered reliable sources of evidence by the Arts Council. Screenshots, view counts, and likes are not accepted as formal proof of the recognition of your talent..
📌 However, we can help translate your digital presence into a format that is recognised as valid evidence.
If some of your projects have only been published on social media, we can:
📌 However, we can help translate your digital presence into a format that is recognised as valid evidence.
If some of your projects have only been published on social media, we can:
- Help you present them as an online exhibition, archive, or catalogue hosted on a professional art platform
- Prepare articles or features on independent websites that meet the standards of recognised arts initiatives
- Connect you with competitions, art platforms, and professional events where your work can be showcased in the proper format
Not in the main evidence package.
However, all past projects should definitely be listed in your CV.
However, all past projects should definitely be listed in your CV.
Ask a colleague whose name does appear in the evidence to provide a Letter of Contribution.
A Letter of Contribution is a brief confirmation letter used when your name isn’t formally credited, but you were involved in the creation of the project.
🛠 We help you:
A Letter of Contribution is a brief confirmation letter used when your name isn’t formally credited, but you were involved in the creation of the project.
🛠 We help you:
- Identify where such letters are needed
- Draft accurate and appropriate wording
- Format the letters to meet the standards
In addition to our portfolio preparation services, you will need to pay the official government fees.
Below are approximate figures (we always confirm the latest amounts before submission):
🔗 More details available at the official website: https://gov.uk/global-talent
Below are approximate figures (we always confirm the latest amounts before submission):
Stage | Amount | Comment |
Stage 1: Arts Council | £561 | Application for endorsement |
Stage 2: UKVI | £209 | Government visa application fee |
Immigration Health Surcharge | £1035/year | Paid for the full visa period (can be spread over 1–5 years) |
Biometrics | ~£20 | Varies depending on country of application |
🔗 More details available at the official website: https://gov.uk/global-talent
Yes — and we have successful cases of re-application.
We carry out a detailed analysis of the refusal, rebuild the application based on current requirements, and strengthen any weak points.
Reapplying after a refusal is not a failure — it’s persistence in pursuit of your dream.
We carry out a detailed analysis of the refusal, rebuild the application based on current requirements, and strengthen any weak points.
Reapplying after a refusal is not a failure — it’s persistence in pursuit of your dream.
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Disclaimer: Fog2Fame is an art talent management agency. We provide professional support in the development, promotion, and presentation of our clients’ creative portfolios. Our services include artistic mentorship, strategic career guidance, and support in building visibility within the international art scene.
We do not provide legal or immigration advice. All matters relating to the Global Talent Visa applications are handled by our trusted legal partner, Coventry Street Advisors, who are authorised by the OISC in the UK under reference number F202331821. They are solely responsible for advising our clients on visa forms, immigration procedures, and legal requirements.
We do not provide legal or immigration advice. All matters relating to the Global Talent Visa applications are handled by our trusted legal partner, Coventry Street Advisors, who are authorised by the OISC in the UK under reference number F202331821. They are solely responsible for advising our clients on visa forms, immigration procedures, and legal requirements.