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Temporary Worker Visa

Immigration Lawyers supporting immigrants in obtaining a Temporary Worker visa for the UK.

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What is the Temporary Worker Visa?

The Temporary Worker Visa allows overseas nationals to work in the UK for a limited period. The duration of stay depends on the visa category, typically ranging from 6 months to 2 years. Previously known as the Tier 5 Temporary Worker Visa, this visa is now categorised under the T5 Temporary Worker Visa scheme and includes multiple subcategories.

You can apply for a Temporary Worker Visa if you wish to work in the UK for seasonal employment, charity work, sports, religious activities, training programs, or government-authorised exchange schemes.

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What Can You Do on a UK Temporary Worker Visa?

A Temporary Worker Visa grants various work permissions, including:

  • Employment with a licensed UK sponsor.
  • Participation in an approved exchange scheme.
  • Volunteering for a registered international charity.
  • Attending business meetings, training sessions, and conferences.
  • Studying part-time.
  • Taking on a second job for up to 20 hours per week.
  • Bringing certain dependents (family members).
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Restrictions on a Temporary Worker Visa

While the Temporary Worker Visa provides work flexibility, certain activities are prohibited:

  • Access to public funds.
  • Engaging in roles not listed on the eligible occupations list.
  • Self-employment or starting a business.
  • Taking up permanent employment or seeking UK settlement through this visa.
  • Working as a doctor or dentist in training unless part of a recognised program.
If you are unsure whether or not you qualify for a temporary worker visa and would like to get guidance from a professional, you can contact our immigration lawyers on 0161 843 9000 or by filling out the form above. 

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Types of Temporary Worker Visas

If you are an artist, entertainer, or professional sportsperson, you may qualify for this visa category.

Eligibility for Sportspersons:

  • Must be internationally established in their field.
  • Their presence must contribute to the development of their sport.

Applicants must be sponsored by a UK employer and have a certificate of sponsorship endorsed by a recognised governing body.

The visa is initially issued for 12 months, with the option to extend.

This visa is designed for individuals joining approved UK exchange programs, including:

  • Work experience and training.
  • Research fellowships.
  • Overseas Government Language Programmes.
  • Sponsored by a licensed UK organisation.
  • Valid for 12 to 24 months, depending on the scheme.

This visa applies to individuals working in the UK under international law, such as:

  • Employees of foreign governments or international organisations.
  • Private servants in diplomatic households.
  • Contractual service suppliers under international agreements.
  • Stay duration varies between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the agreement.

For those volunteering with UK-registered charities.

  • Work must be unpaid and temporary.
  • Valid for up to 12 months.

For individuals involved in preaching, pastoral duties, or religious order work.

  • Unlike the Charity Worker Visa, religious workers can receive payment.
  • Valid for up to 24 months.

For those undertaking temporary farm work in the UK.

  • Valid for up to 6 months.
  • Seasonal workers are exempt from the UK healthcare surcharge.

For young people (18-30 years old) from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Monaco, Hong Kong, South Korea, and Taiwan.

  • Allows a 2-year stay in the UK.
  • No job offer is required.
  • No option to extend the visa.
  • Family members cannot join as dependents.

Eligibility Requirements for a UK Temporary Worker Visa

Eligibility criteria vary by category, but general requirements include:

  • Sponsorship by a licensed UK employer.
  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) worth 30 points.
  • Proof of financial stability (e.g., having at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before applying).
  • Additional documentation may be required based on the visa type.

How to Apply for a Temporary Worker Visa

The Temporary Worker Visa application process involves:

Completing an online application form on the UK government website

Providing the following documents:

  • Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
  • Valid passport or travel document.
  • Financial evidence (e.g., bank statements).
  • Tuberculosis test results (if required).
  • Visa application fee and healthcare surcharge payment.

Attending an appointment at a visa application centre to submit biometric information (photo and fingerprints).

For further advice or to discuss your visa application with one of our UK Visa specialists, contact our team on 0161 843 9000 or complete our enquiry form below.

FAQs

How long does it take?​

It will take UK Visa Specialist experts no longer than 2 or 3 weeks to complete the processing of your application. In this time, we will discuss the contents of your application and the supporting documents with you.

You should try and apply up to 3 months prior to the date you are expected to start the job in the UK. Once applied, you’ll get a decision within 3 weeks (if applying from outside the UK) and 8 weeks (if applying to switch from another route from inside the UK).

You can apply for a quicker decision from inside the UK. If you are outside the UK however, the option to request a faster decision depends on which country you are applying from.

How much does it cost?​

The standard fee is £244 for a visa upto 12 months. This fee is the same whether you’re applying from inside the UK or outside.

How long can you stay?​

Your visa can be valid for up to 12 months or the time given on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter. Your employer will set the terms and length of your visa based on how long they require you to work for them.

If your partner or children are applying with you as dependents, they will also be granted the same length of visa as you. If your partner or children apply at a later date their visa will be valid up to the same date as your visa, after which you will apply to extend together.

What about family members​?

Your partner and children can also apply to come with you or join you in the UK as your ‘dependants’. They will be eligible if they are any of the following:

  • your husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner
  • your child under 18 – including if they were born in the UK during your stay
  • your child over 18 if they’re currently in the UK as your dependant

You must provide proof of your relationship to your partner or child for their application to be successful. You must also pay a separate fee for each dependent and show additional funds for their maintenance for the first 28 days when they arrive in the UK.

Get Legal Support

If you would like more advice or to discuss your legal matter with one of our solicitors, you can contact our team on 0161 843 9000 or complete our enquiry form at the top of the page.

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  • Email:
    info@myukvs.co.uk
  • Manchester Office:
    +44 161 843 9000
  • Rochdale Office:
    +44 1706 276803
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