"UK Visas Granted to Turkish Drag Queens and Nigerian Church Performers of Foreign Origin"

In a bid to attract top creative talent, the UK has been welcoming a diverse range of individuals under its Global Talent visa scheme. This initiative, launched in 2019, has seen a significant increase in annual applications, with a 178% surge reported since its inception.

Among the latest recipients of this visa are Nigerian rapper and poet Tobi Adegbite, known by his stage name Rhookcastle, and transgender drag performer Akis Ka from Turkey. Both artists have made their homes in Birmingham, UK, and are making a significant impact on the local arts and culture scene.

Rhookcastle, who launched a website in May 2025 offering Global Talent visa documentation and submission services, is using his platform to help others in the creative industry navigate the visa application process. Akis Ka, who goes by the stage name Q-BRA or Akis Ka, is a transgender drag artist and LGBTQIA+ rights activist from Istanbul, Turkey, who has been welcomed under this program.

The scheme, which allows individuals to stay in the UK for up to five years with their dependents, is overseen by a recognized UK body relevant to the applicant's specific field. For digital technology professionals, this body is Tech Nation, while other designated endorsing bodies support applicants in academia, research, arts, and culture.

However, the scheme has not been without controversy. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has requested an "urgent" review of the program, deeming it "nonsensical". Despite this, the Global Talent visa scheme continues to provide a valuable opportunity for creative professionals from around the world to share their talents and contribute to the UK's vibrant arts and culture scene.

In addition to Rhookcastle and Akis Ka, the scheme has also welcomed African evangelical church singers who have moved to the UK to perform in local congregations. The diverse range of individuals welcomed under the Global Talent visa scheme is a testament to its success in attracting top creative talent from around the world.

"UK Visas Granted to Turkish Drag Queens and Nigerian Church Performers of Foreign Origin"