Overview

The Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) applies to international researchers, or posts which contain an element of research at PhD level or above in sensitive subjects, where knowledge could be used to develop advanced military technology or weapons of mass destruction.

Nationals from the EEA, Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, Switzerland, South Korea and the USA are currently exempt from the ATAS requirements.

All non exempt international researchers must obtain ATAS approval to undertake any research at PhD level or above in a sensitive subject area under the following visa routes:

• Skilled Worker and Temporary Worker (GAE). The ATAS certificate must be obtained before the University can issue a Certificate of Sponsorship
• International Visitors who will be undertaking research.

A new ATAS certificate will be required if there is a change to the planned research activity or area, if the scope of the research changes, or if the job title changes.

The ATAS requirement applies to the following subject areas:

• Medicine
• Biological Sciences
• Veterinary Sciences, Agriculture and related subjects
• Physical Sciences
• Mathematical and Computer Sciences
• Engineering
• Technologies

Full details of the ATAS scheme are available on the GOV website.

Failure to comply with this requirement could result in the loss of the University's UKVI sponsorship licences for students, staff and visitors.

If you have any queries regarding ATAS certification please contact the HR Compliance team.