Permitted Paid Engagement visa

Overview

You may be able to visit the UK for a paid engagement if you’ve been invited as an expert in your profession.

You can apply for a Permitted Paid Engagement visa if you:

are invited by a UK-based organisation or client

want to come to the UK to do specific paid work without having to be sponsored under the points-based visa system

meet the other eligibility requirements

You may not have to apply for a visa. What you need to do depends on your nationality.

Check if you need to apply for a UK visa.

What you can and cannot do

You can be invited by a UK-based organisation or client to:

be a student examiner or assessor

take part in selection panels as a highly qualified academic if you’re invited by an education, arts or research organisation

give lectures at a higher education institution, as long as it’s not a part-time or full-time role

examine UK-based pilots so they meet the standards of the country you come from if you’re invited by an approved UK training organisation regulated by the UK Civil Aviation Authority

provide advocacy in a particular area of law

take part in arts, entertainment or sporting activities including broadcasting

take part in fashion modelling assignments

You can also do minor activities related to your work or business overseas, such as attend meetings.

You cannot:

do paid work unrelated to your main job or area of expertise at home, other than what’s allowed by your visa

extend this visa (your visa) or switch to another visa

live in the UK for extended periods

get public funds (benefits)

study

marry or register a civil partnership, or give notice of marriage or civil partnership

bring family members (‘dependants’) with you on your application - they must apply separately

Read the guidance for more information about what you can and cannot do with a Permitted Paid Engagement visa.

How long you can stay

You can stay in the UK for up to 1 month.

When to apply and how long it takes

If you need a visa, you must apply online before you come to the UK.

As part of your application, you’ll need to book an appointment at a visa application centre to prove your identity and provide your documents.

Allow time to attend your appointment, as the visa application centre (a visa application centre) could be in another country.

The visa application centre (a visa application centre) may keep your passport and documents while processing your
application.

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

Getting a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.

Find out how to get your visa decision faster - this depends on what country you’re in.

Fees

A Permitted Paid Engagement visa costs £95.

Eligibility

You must show that:

you’re 18 or over

you’re visiting the UK for no more than 1 month

you’ve been formally invited and paid by a UK-based organisation to attend an event or other permitted engagement

you’ll leave the UK at the end of your visit

you will not live in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits, or make the UK your main home

you’re able to support yourself during your trip (or have funding from someone else to support you)

you’re able to pay for your return or onward journey (or have funding from someone else to pay for the journey)

you have proof of any business or other activities you want to do in the UK, as allowed by the Visitor Rules

Documents you'll need

When you apply you must provide:

a current passport or other valid travel document - your passport must have a blank page for your visa

a formal invitation from the UK-based organisation or client (a UK-based organisation) you’ll be paid by

proof that the paid engagement relates to your expertise, qualifications and main job in your home country, for example a letter from your employer

See the full list of documents you can provide to prove your eligibility.

You’ll need to provide a certified translation of any documents that are not in English or Welsh.

Additional documents

You must provide extra documents if you’re an established arts, entertainment or sporting professional. You can provide any of the following:

publications

publicity material

proof of awards

media coverage and reviews

proof of recent performances

You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances.

Apply from outside the UK

If you need a visa, you must apply online before you travel to the UK.

Check what documents you’ll need to apply.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your online application, you need to book an appointment at a visa application centre. You’ll have your fingerprints and photograph (known as ‘biometric information’) taken at your appointment.

Allow time to attend your appointment (an appointment at a visa application centre), as the visa application centre (a visa application centre) could be in another country.

Apply for a Permitted Paid Engagement visa

Once you’ve started your application you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

You can sign back into your application if you’ve saved it (your form). Check your email and follow the link to return to your application.

Apply with family members

Each family member must make their own application and pay the fee.

You can apply on behalf of your partner and child, if they cannot apply for themselves.

They (your partner and child) must attend their (your partner and child) own appointment at a visa application centre.

How long it takes to get a decision

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

If you need to change or cancel your application

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it (your application) contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

You can ask to cancel your application. You’ll only get your fee refunded if the application (your application) has not been processed yet.


Health and Care Worker visa

Overview

A Health and Care Worker visa allows medical professionals to come to or stay in the UK to do an eligible job with the NHS, an NHS supplier or in adult social care.

Some health workers and their families will get their visas extended for free because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

If you or your family are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

If you or your close family member started living in the UK before 1 January 2021, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme.

Otherwise you need a visa to work in the UK.

Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme (the free EU Settlement Scheme).

Eligibility

Your job

To qualify for a Health and Care Worker visa, you must:

be a qualified doctor, nurse, health professional or adult social care professional

work in an eligible health or social care job

work for a UK employer that’s been approved by the Home Office

have a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ from your employer with information about the role you’ve been offered in the UK

be paid a minimum salary - how much depends on the type of work you do

Check if your job is eligible.

You must have a confirmed job offer before you apply for your visa.

Knowledge of English

You must be able to speak, read, write and understand English. You’ll usually need to prove your knowledge of English when you apply.

If you’re not eligible for a Health and Care Worker visa

You may be eligible for another type of visa to work in the UK.

How long you can stay

Your visa can last for up to 5 years before you need to extend it. You’ll need to apply to extend or update your visa when it expires or if you change jobs or employer.

If you want to stay longer in the UK

You can apply to extend your visa as many times as you like as long as you still meet the eligibility requirements.

After 5 years, you may be able to apply to settle permanently in the UK (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’). This gives you the right to live, work and study here for as long as you like, and apply for benefits if you’re eligible.

How to apply

You must apply online.

How you apply depends on whether you’re:

outside the UK and are coming to the UK

inside the UK and extending your current visa

inside the UK and switching from a different visa

If you want to change your job or employer, you must apply to update your visa.

You can include your partner and children in your application to stay in the UK if they are eligible.

How long it takes

You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before the day you are due to start work in the UK. This date is listed on your certificate of sponsorship.

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity and provide your documents.

You may need to allow extra time if you need an appointment to do this (prove). You’ll find out if you need one when you start your application.

Getting a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.

If you need to go to an appointment, you may be able to pay for a faster decision. How you do this depends on whether you’re outside the UK or inside the UK.

How much it costs

You, your partner or children will each need to:

pay the application fee

prove you have enough personal savings

Check how much money you’ll need.

Healthcare surcharge

You - and your partner or children - will not have to pay the healthcare surcharge (Healthcare surcharge).

What you can and cannot do

You can:

work in an eligible job

take on additional work in certain circumstances

do voluntary work

study

bring your partner and children with you as your ‘dependants’, if they’re eligible

travel abroad and return to the UK

apply to settle permanently in the UK (also known as ‘indefinite leave to remain’) if you’ve lived in the UK for 5 years and meet the other eligibility requirements

You cannot:

apply for most benefits (public funds), or the State Pension

change jobs or employer unless you update your visa

If your application is successful, you’ll get a full list of what you can and cannot do with a Health and Care Worker visa.

Your job

You must meet all of the following requirements to be eligible for a Health and Care Worker visa:

you’re a qualified doctor, nurse, health professional or adult social care professional

your job is eligible for this visa (a Health and Care Worker visa)

you’ll be working for a UK health and care sector employer that’s been approved by the Home Office

you’ll be paid the minimum salary or the ‘going rate’ for the type of work you’ll be doing - whichever is higher

Check if your job is eligible

Before you can find out if your job is eligible, you need to know its (Your job) 4-digit occupation code.

If you already have a job offer, ask your employer for your occupation code.

Look up your job’s occupation code (its (Your job) 4-digit occupation code)

If you do not know your code (its (Your job) 4-digit occupation code), you can search for your job (your job’s) in the ONS occupation coding tool.

Not every job title is included. If you cannot find your exact job title, try searching for similar jobs.

Make sure the job description matches what you’ll be doing. Some jobs in the same area of practice have different codes, for example dentists and dental hygiene therapists.

Check if an occupation code is eligible for this visa (a Health and Care Worker visa)

Your job must be in one of the following occupation codes to qualify for the Health and Care Worker visa (a Health and Care Worker visa):

1181: health services and public health managers and directors

1242: residential, day and domiciliary care managers and proprietors

2112: biological scientists and biochemists

2113: physical scientists

2211: medical practitioners

2212: psychologists

2213: pharmacists

2214: ophthalmic opticians

2215: dental practitioners

2217: medical radiographers

2218: podiatrists

2219: health professionals that are ‘not elsewhere classified’, such as audiologists and occupational health advisers

2221: physiotherapists

2222: occupational therapists

2223: speech and language therapists

2229: therapy professionals that are ‘not elsewhere classified’, such as osteopaths and psychotherapists

2231: nurses

2232: midwives

2442: social workers

3111: laboratory technicians

3213: paramedics

3216: dispensing opticians

3217: pharmaceutical technicians

3218: medical and dental technicians

3219: health associate professionals not elsewhere classified

6141: nursing auxiliaries and assistants

6143: dental nurses

6146: senior care workers

Approved UK health and care sector employers

You must have a job offer from an approved UK employer before you apply for a Health and Care Worker visa. Approved employers are also known as sponsors, because they are sponsoring you to come to or stay in the UK (UK).

You must have a job offer from:

the NHS

an organisation providing medical services to the NHS

an organisation providing adult social care

Read the guidance to see a full list of eligible employers.

If your employer is not currently approved, they can apply for a sponsor licence if they’re eligible.

They (your employer)’ll need to pay a fee - £536 for small businesses and charities or £1,476 for medium and large organisations. It usually takes around 8 weeks to process a licence application.

If you already have a job offer from an approved employer

Your employer - also known as your sponsor - will check that you meet the eligibility requirements. They (your employer)’ll give you a ‘certificate of sponsorship’ to prove this.

The certificate of sponsorship (a ‘certificate of sponsorship’) is an electronic record, not a physical document. It will have a reference number, which you’ll need for your visa application.

You must apply for your visa (a Health and Care Worker visa) within 3 months of getting your certificate of sponsorship (a ‘certificate of sponsorship’).

Check which documents you’ll need to apply.

Salary requirements

You’ll usually need to be paid at least £20,480.

If the ‘going rate’ for your job is higher than £20,480, you’ll usually need to be paid at least the going rate.

Each occupation code has its own annual going rate. How you find the going rate depends on your job.

When you need to meet different salary requirements

You’ll need to meet different salary requirements for this visa (a Health and Care Worker visa) if your job is in one of the the following occupation codes:

1181: health services and public health managers and directors

1242: residential, day and domiciliary care managers and proprietors

2112: biological scientists and biochemists

2113: physical scientists

3111: laboratory technicians

3216: dispensing opticians

3217: pharmaceutical technicians

6146: senior care workers

Find out the going rate if your job is in one of these occupation codes - including when you can earn less.

If you’re doing any other health and care job

Check how much you’ll need to earn in the table of national pay scales for eligible healthcare jobs.

Salaries are listed by NHS pay band and area of the UK you’ll be working in. Ask your employer if you’re not sure what your role or pay band will be.

If you’ll need to meet different salary requirements

You’ll need to meet different salary requirements for this visa (a Health and Care Worker visa) if your job is in one of the following occupation codes (these occupation codes):

2113: physical scientists

3111: laboratory technicians

3216: dispensing opticians

3217: pharmaceutical technicians

6146: senior care workers

If your job is in any other occupation code that is eligible for this visa (a Health and Care Worker visa), you must meet the salary requirements described in ‘Your job’.

Salary requirements

You’ll usually need to be paid at least £25,600 per year or £10.10 per hour, whichever is higher. If the ‘going rate’ for your job (‘Your job’) is higher than both of these, you’ll usually need to be paid at least the going rate.

Each occupation code has its own annual going rate. Check the going rate for your job (the ‘going rate’ for your job (‘Your job’)) (‘Your job’) in the going rates table.

When you can be paid less

You might still be able to apply for a Health and Care Worker visa if your job is eligible but your salary is less than £25,600 or your job’s (‘Your job’) usual ‘going rate’. You must still be paid at least £10.10 per hour.

You can be paid between 70% and 90% of the usual going rate for your job (‘Your job’) if your salary is at least £20,480 per year and you meet one of the following criteria:

your job (‘Your job’) is in a shortage occupation

you’re under 26, studying or a recent graduate, or in professional training

you have a science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) PhD level qualification that’s relevant to your job (if you have a relevant PhD level qualification in any other subject your salary must be at least £23,040)

you have a postdoctoral position in a scientific role

Your job (‘Your job’) is in a shortage occupation

A ‘shortage occupation’ is a skilled job where there is a shortage of workers in the UK.

If your job is on the shortage occupation list, you can be paid 80% of the job’s usual going rate.

View the shortage occupations list (the shortage occupation list) to see if your job is included and how much you’ll need to be paid.

Make sure you check there’s a shortage in the part of the UK you’ll be working in - England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland.

You’re under 26, studying or a recent graduate, or in professional training

You can be paid 70% of your job’s (‘Your job’) usual going rate if one of the following applies:

you’re under 26 on the date you apply

you’re currently in the UK on a Student visa studying at bachelor’s degree level or above - or you have been in the last 2 years, and a Student or visit visa was your most recent visa

you’re currently in the UK on a Graduate Entrepreneur visa

you’ll be working towards a recognised qualification in a UK regulated profession

you’ll be working towards full registration or chartered status in the job you’re being sponsored for

Your total stay in the UK cannot be more than 4 years if you apply for one of these reasons. This includes any time you’ve already spent in the UK on a Tier 2 (General) work visa.

If this applies to you, check how much you’ll need to be paid to qualify for this visa (a Graduate Entrepreneur visa).

You have a PhD level qualification that’s relevant to your job

You can earn 80% or 90% of the job’s (your job) usual going rate, depending on which subject you are qualified in.

If you have a science, technology, engineering or maths (STEM) qualification, you can be paid 80% of your job’s (your job) usual going rate, as long as you will still earn at least £20,480 per year.

If you have a non-STEM qualification, you can be paid 90% of your job’s (your job) usual going rate, as long as you will still earn at least £23,040 a year.

In both situations, you must:

have a UK PhD or an equivalent doctorate-level overseas qualification - you’ll need to apply through Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) to check if an overseas qualification is equivalent to a UK PhD

be able to prove your qualification is relevant to the job you’ll be doing in the UK - your employer can confirm this

View the list of jobs that qualify for a PhD salary discount to see how much you need to be paid.

If you’re a research or academic leader, you may also be eligible to apply for the Global Talent visa. This visa has no language or minimum salary requirements.

You have a postdoctoral position in a scientific role

You can be paid 70% of your job’s usual going rate if you’ll be working in a postdoctoral position.

Check how much you’ll need to be paid to qualify for this visa (a Graduate Entrepreneur visa).

Your total stay in the UK cannot be more than 4 years if you apply to work in a postdoctoral position at 70% of the usual going rate. This includes any time you’ve already spent in the UK on a Tier 2 (General) work visa.

Knowledge of English

You’ll usually need to prove your knowledge of the English language (English) when you apply, unless you did this in a previous successful visa application.

Level of English

You must prove you can read, write, speak and understand English to at least level B1 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.

You can prove your knowledge of English by:

passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider

having a GCSE, A level, Scottish National Qualification level 4 or 5, Scottish Higher or Advanced Higher in English, gained through study at a UK school that you began when you were under 18

having a degree-level academic qualification that was taught in English - if you studied abroad, you’ll need to apply through Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) for confirmation that your qualification is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD

Who does not need to prove their knowledge of English

You do not need to prove your knowledge of English if you’re a national of one of the following countries:

Antigua and Barbuda

Australia

the Bahamas

Barbados

Belize

Canada

Dominica

Grenada

Guyana

Jamaica

Malta

New Zealand

St Kitts and Nevis

St Lucia

St Vincent and the Grenadines

Trinidad and Tobago

USA

If you’re a doctor, dentist, nurse or midwife

You do not need to prove your knowledge of English if you’ve already passed an English Language (English) assessment that is accepted by the relevant regulated professional body.

How much it costs

When you apply for a Health and Care Worker visa, you’ll need to have enough money to:

pay the application fee

support yourself when you arrive in the UK - you’ll usually need to have at least £1,270 available (unless you’re exempt)

You’ll be told how much you need to pay when you apply.

Application fees

The standard application fee (the application fee) depends on whether you’ll be in the UK for:

up to 3 years - £232 per person

more than 3 years - £464 per person

The fee (the application fee) is the same whether you apply from inside or outside the UK.

If you’re from an eligible country

Your application fee (the application fee) will be automatically reduced by £55 if you’re from one of the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden or Turkey.

This reduction only applies to your visa application. Your partner and children will still need to pay the full application fee.

Money to support yourself

You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK.

You will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when you apply, unless either:

you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your costs during your first month in the UK

Your partner and children will also need to prove they can support themselves while they’re in the UK. Check how much they’ll need.

Read the guidance on financial evidence for more information about the money you need and how to prove it.

If your employer can support you instead

Your certificate of sponsorship must confirm this (support). Your employer will need to complete the ‘sponsor certifies maintenance’ section on your certificate. This is under ‘Additional data’.

Documents you'll need to apply

When you apply you’ll need to provide:

your certificate of sponsorship reference number - your employer will give you this

proof of your knowledge of English

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality

your job title and annual salary

your job’s occupation code

the name of your employer and their sponsor licence number - this will be on your certificate of sponsorship

Ask your employer for a copy of your certificate of sponsorship if you do not have one.

If your certificate of sponsorship was issued before 1 December 2020

Your certificate of sponsorship will need to be updated because it (Your certificate of sponsorship) was assigned to you before the Tier 2 (General) work visa was replaced by the Skilled Worker visa. The Health and Care Worker visa is a type of skilled work visa.

Ask your employer to update the ‘sponsor notes’ section in the UK visa sponsorship management system.

Other documents you might need

Depending on your circumstances, you might be asked to provide:

evidence that you have enough personal savings to support yourself in the UK, for example bank statements (unless your certificate of sponsorship shows your employer can support you)

proof of your relationship with your partner or children if they’re applying with you

your tuberculosis test results if you’re from a listed country

a criminal record certificate - if you’re working in certain jobs

your UK PhD certificate, or your unique Ecctis reference number (formerly unique UK NARIC reference number) if your qualification is from outside the UK - you’ll need to apply through Ecctis

You’ll need a blank page in your passport for your visa if you’re:

from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein but do not have a biometric passport with a chip in it

If your documents are not in English or Welsh you’ll also need to provide a certified translation.

Criminal record certificate

You’ll need to provide a criminal record certificate if you’re applying from outside the UK, unless your job is in one of the following occupation codes:

biological scientists and biochemists (2112)

physical scientists (2113)

Check how to apply for criminal records checks.

If you’ve lived in more than one country

You might need to provide a certificate from each country you’ve lived in, depending on your age and how long you stayed in each country.

If you’re under 28, you’ll need a certificate from any country you’ve stayed in for a total of 12 months or more since you turned 18.

If you’re 28 or over, you’ll need a certificate from any country you’ve stayed in over the last 10 years.

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for a Health and Care Worker visa.

Check which documents you’ll need to apply.

Your partner or children will need to apply separately.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity. How you do this depends on where you’re from and what type of passport you have.

You’ll either:

have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre - this is to get a biometric residence permit

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign into your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.

If you do need an appointment:

the centre (a visa application centre) may need to keep your passport and documents while they (a visa application centre) process your application

you may have to travel to get to your nearest visa application centre (this (a visa application centre) could be in another country)

Apply for a Health and Care Worker visa

Apply for a Skilled Worker visa. You’ll be asked if you’re applying for a Health and Care Worker visa as part of your application - make sure you choose ‘yes’.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

Sign in to your account using the link from your sign-up email.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example because:

your supporting documents need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

If you’ve applied through a visa application centre, find out if you can pay to get a faster decision - this depends on where you’re applying from.

After you apply

You can ask to cancel your application. You’ll only get your fee refunded if UKVI has not started processing your application.

You’ll get an email containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Your partner and children

Your partner and children can apply to join you or to stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they (Your partner and children)’re eligible. If their (Your partner and children) application is successful, their (Your partner and children) visa will end on the same date as yours.

Your relationship

A dependant partner or child is 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’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship when you apply.

Your partner

You must be able to prove that either:

you’re in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK

you’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply

If your child is 16 or over

They (your child) must:

live with you (unless they (your child)’re in full-time education at boarding school, college or university)

not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children

be financially supported by you

If your child lives with you, you’ll need to provide evidence of their address such as:

a bank statement

credit card bills

driving licence

NHS registration document

an official letter from their (your child) university or college

Money they (your child) need to support themselves (your child)

Your partner and children must have a certain amount of money available to support themselves while they’re in the UK.

You - or your partner or child - will need:

£285 for your partner

£315 for one child

£200 for each additional child

You - or your partner or child - will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of you or them applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when they (you or them) apply, unless either:

you have all been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your family’s costs during your first month in the UK - this must be confirmed on your certificate of sponsorship

If your partner or child is applying at a different time to you, they’ll only need to prove they have enough money to support themselves if they have been in the UK for less than 1 year.

Apply from outside the UK

Your partner and children must either:

apply online as your partner

apply online as your child

Each family member will need to complete a separate application and pay the application fee. The fee depends on whether they’ll be in the UK for:

up to 3 years - £232 per person

more than 3 years - £464 per person

They (Each family member)’ll also need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

Proving their identity

As part of their application, your partner and children will need to prove their identity.

They’ll either:

have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a
visa application centre - this is to get a biometric residence permit

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan their identity document - they’ll also create or sign in to their UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

They’ll be told what they need to do when they apply.

If they do need an appointment:

the visa application centre may need to keep their passport and documents while they process their application

they may have to travel to get to their nearest centre (this could be in another country)

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they’ve applied online, proved their identity and provided their documents, they’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

They may be able to pay to get their visa faster or use other services depending on which country they’re in - check with the visa application centre.

Apply from inside the UK (extend or switch their visa)

Apply for your partner or child’s visa at the same time as you apply to extend or switch your own visa.  This includes children who were born or have turned 18 during your stay.

If you cannot apply at the same time, your partner or child can apply to extend or switch their visas at a later date. This must be before their current visa expires.

Your partner or children cannot apply to switch to your Health and Care Worker visa as your dependants if they (your partner or child) are currently in the UK:

on a visit visa

on a short-term student visa

on a Parent of a Child Student visa

on a seasonal worker visa

on a domestic worker in a private household visa

on immigration bail

because they (your partner or child) were given permission to stay outside the immigration rules, for example on compassionate grounds

How to apply

Your partner and children must apply online to either:

extend or switch to your Health and Care Worker visa as your partner

extend or switch to your Health and Care Worker visa as your child

They (Your partner and children)’ll need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

Proving their identity

As part of their application, your partner and children will need to prove their identity. They’ll either:

have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a
UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point - this is to get a biometric residence permit

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan their identity document - they’ll also create or sign in to their UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

They’ll be told what they need to do when they apply.

They must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they get a decision. Their application will be withdrawn if they do.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they’ve applied online, proved their identity and provided their documents, they’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

They may be able to pay to get a faster decision - they’ll be told if they can when they apply.

Children born in the UK

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen.

You can apply online for their dependant visa. You must do this if you want to travel in and out of the UK with your child.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.

You must apply to add them (your child) to your visa before they (your child) turn 18 if they (your child) want to stay in the UK.

Extend your visa

Some health workers and their families will get their visas extended for free because of coronavirus (COVID-19).

You can usually apply to extend your Health and Care Worker visa if all of the following are true:

you have the same job as when you were given your previous permission to enter or stay in the UK

your job (your previous permission to enter or stay in the UK) is in the same occupation code as when you were given your previous permission to enter or stay in the UK

you’re still working for the employer who gave you your current certificate of sponsorship

you still meet the salary requirements

Your partner or children will need to apply separately.

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

If you have a Tier 2 Health and Care Worker visa

You’ll have a Tier 2 Health and Care Worker visa if either:

you applied for a Health and Care Worker visa before 1 December 2020

you had a Tier 2 (General) work visa which you’ve extended as a Health and Care Worker visa

If you have this visa, you may need to meet different eligibility requirements, depending on:

whether you got the certificate of sponsorship for your first Tier 2 visa before or after 24 November 2016

whether you applied for your first Tier 2 (General) or Health and Care Worker visa before 6 April 2021

your occupation code - some have different going rates

If you got your certificate of sponsorship before 24 November 2016

If you apply to extend before 24 May 2023, you’ll need to be paid at least £20,800 per year unless the ‘going rate’ for your job is higher than this.

This (paid) applies even if your job normally has different salary requirements.

If you got your certificate of sponsorship on or after 24 November 2016

If you apply to extend before 1 December 2026, you will still need to meet the salary requirements, but your salary may also include allowances, such as London weighting. Any allowances must be guaranteed for the length of your stay.

If you applied for your first Tier 2 (General) or Health and Care Worker visa before 6 April 2021

If your job has different salary requirements, you do not need to be paid at least £10.10 per hour. You’ll usually need to be paid at least £25,600 or the going rate for your job, whichever is higher.

If you’re a physical scientist

If you were sponsored for your Tier 2 (General) or Health and Care Worker visa before 1 December 2020, the going rate for your job is different.

Occupation code | Going rate for Health and Care Worker visa | 90% of going rate (for relevant STEM PhD) | 80% of going rate (for relevant non-STEM PhD or shortage occupation) | 70% of going rate (for new entrants)

2113 Physical scientists | £29,000 (£13.94 per hour) | £26,100 (£12.55 per hour) | £23,200 (£11.15 per hour) | £20,300 (£9.76 per hour)

If you’ve changed job or employer

You’ll need to apply to update your visa instead.

Fees

Check how much it costs for your type of visa.

You may also need to pay £19.20 to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your application you’ll need to prove your identity. How you do this depends on where you’re from and the type of passport you have.

You’ll either:

give your fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information) at a
UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point - this is to get a biometric residence permit

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.

Apply to extend your Health and Care Worker visa

You must apply online before your current visa expires.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

Sign in to your account (your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account) using the link from your sign-up email.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example because:

your supporting documents need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision - you’ll be told if you can when you apply.

After you apply

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it (your application) contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

You can ask to cancel your application. You’ll only get your fee refunded if UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)) has not started processing your application.

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Update your visa if you change job or employer

You’ll need to apply to update your Health and Care Worker visa if:

you want to change your job and your new job is with a different employer

your job changes to a different occupation code, and you’re not in a graduate training programme

you leave a job that’s on the shortage occupation list for a job that is not on the list

The same conditions apply to Tier 2 Health and Care visas issued before 1 December 2020.

You do not need to apply again if you stay in the same job (a job that’s on the shortage occupation list), but your job (a job that’s on the shortage occupation list) is taken off the shortage occupation list.

If you’ll be doing a different job for your current employer, you only need to update your visa if your new job is in a different occupation code.

Your partner or children will need to apply separately.

Eligibility and documents you’ll need to apply

Your new job (a different job) must meet the eligibility requirements and you’ll need a new certificate of sponsorship to prove this.

You’ll only need to provide other evidence again if you’ve been in the UK for less than one year.

If you’re applying to add a second job to your current visa

You must apply to update your visa if you take on additional work that is either:

more than 20 paid hours a week in addition to the job you’re being sponsored for

in a different occupation code

Your second job (a second job) must meet the eligibility requirements and you’ll need a new certificate of sponsorship to prove this (meet).

You’ll also need to include a letter with your application explaining that you want to change your current permission to stay.

Your letter must state:

your name

your date of birth

your current certificate of sponsorship reference number

the date when your current permission to stay runs out

If your application is successful, you’ll get a new visa giving you permission to do both jobs.

You do not need to apply to update your visa if you’re taking on additional work in the same occupation code or you’ll be doing less than 20 paid hours a week.

When to apply to update your visa

You can apply to update your visa up to 3 months before the start date of your new job.

You can continue working in your current job while your new application is being considered, or to work out your notice period - as long as you apply before your current visa (your visa) expires.

You should not start your new job until you’ve got confirmation of your new permission.

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application (your new application) will be withdrawn if you do.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your application you’ll need to prove your identity.

How you do this (prove) depends on where you’re from and the type of passport you have.

You’ll either:

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply. You’ll also be told how to provide your supporting documents if you need to.

Apply to update your visa

You must apply online for a Skilled Worker visa. You’ll be asked if you’re applying for a Health and Care Worker visa as part of your application - make sure you choose ‘yes’.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

Sign in to your account using the link from your sign-up email.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example because:

your supporting documents need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision - you’ll be told if you can when you apply.

After you apply

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Switch to this visa

You might be able to apply to change (‘switch’) to a Health and Care Worker visa if you’re already in the UK on a different type of visa.

Your partner or children will need to apply separately.

Eligibility

You must meet the following requirements:

your job meets the eligibility requirements (the following requirements)

you can speak, read, write and understand English

Who cannot apply to switch to this visa

You cannot apply to switch to this visa if you’re currently in the UK:

on a visit visa

on a short-term student visa

on a Parent of a Child Student visa

on a seasonal worker visa

on a domestic worker in a private household visa

on immigration bail

because you were given permission to stay outside the immigration rules, for example on compassionate grounds

You must leave the UK and apply for a Health and Care Worker visa from abroad if you’re in one of these categories.

How long you can stay

You can stay in the UK for as long as your employer is sponsoring you for, up to 5 years at a time. Your certificate of sponsorship will say how long your employer is sponsoring you for.

Fees

Check how much it costs for your type of visa.

You may also need to pay £19.20 to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.

Proving your identity and providing supporting documents

As part of your application you’ll need to prove your identity.

How you do this (prove) depends on where you’re from and the type of passport you have.

You’ll either:

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign in to your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.

Apply to switch to a Health and Care Worker visa

You must apply online before your current visa expires.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Apply now

Continue your application

Sign in to your account (your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account) using the link from your sign-up email.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example because:

your supporting documents need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

You may be able to pay to get a faster decision -  you’ll be told if you can when you apply.

After you apply

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Taking on additional work

You can do additional paid work on this visa as long as you’re still doing the job you’re being sponsored for. You can also do unpaid voluntary work.

You can work up to 20 hours a week in a job that’s either:

in the same occupation code and at the same level as your main job

in a shortage occupation

Check if your job (the job you’re being sponsored for) is on the list of:

healthcare and education shortage occupations

all other shortage occupations

Due to coronavirus (COVID-19), there’s currently no limit on the number of hours you can work or volunteer if you have a second job as an NHS doctor, nurse or paramedic.

If you’ll be working more than 20 hours a week or in a different occupation code

You’ll need to apply to update your visa so that you’re being sponsored to do both jobs.

You’ll need to:

get a new certificate of sponsorship from your second employer

include a letter with your application explaining that you want to change your current permission to stay


Temporary Worker - Charity Worker visa (T5)

Overview

You can apply for a Temporary Worker - Charity Worker visa (T5) if:

you want to do unpaid voluntary work for a charity

you meet the other eligibility requirements

This visa (a Temporary Worker - Charity Worker visa (T5)) has replaced the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker - Charity Worker) visa.

If you or your family are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

If you or your close family member started living in the UK before 1 January 2021, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme.

Otherwise you need a visa to work in the UK.

Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme (the free EU Settlement Scheme).

Sponsorship

You must have a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed employer before you can apply to come to the UK to work.

The work you do in the UK must relate to the work of your sponsor organisation.

How long it will take

The earliest you can apply for a visa is 3 months before the date you’re due to start work. This date is on your certificate of sponsorship (a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed employer).

You should get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK.

Find out about paying for a faster decision.

Application fee

The application fee for each person applying (Application fee) is £244.

The fee (Application fee) is the same whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK.

If you’re from an eligible country

Your application fee (Application fee) will be automatically reduced by £55 if you’re from one of the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden or Turkey.

This reduction only applies to your visa application. Your partner and children will still need to pay the full application fee (Application fee).

Healthcare surcharge

You’ll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge (Healthcare surcharge) as part of your application. Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.

If you’re applying to extend in the UK

You’ll need to pay £19.20 to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.

Get a faster decision on your application

If you’re applying to extend from inside the UK you can pay an extra £500 for the priority service to get a decision within 5 working days.

You can pay an extra £800 for the super priority service to get a decision:

by the end of the the next working day after your UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) appointment if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

How long you can stay

You can stay for up to 12 months or the time given on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.

You can enter the UK up to 14 days before the start date of your job.

What you can and cannot do

You can:

study - for some courses you’ll need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate

work for your sponsor in the job described in your certificate of sponsorship

do a second job in the same sector at the same level as your main job for up to 20 hours per week

do a job on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list for up to 20 hours per week

bring your partner and children with you, if they’re eligible

You cannot:

receive any payment for work

take a permanent job

get public funds

Eligibility

To be eligible for a Temporary Worker - Charity Worker visa (T5) you need:

a certificate of sponsorship reference number from your UK sponsor (your sponsor)

enough money to support yourself in the UK - you’ll usually need to have at least £1,270 available (unless you’re exempt)

Certificate of sponsorship

A certificate of sponsorship is a unique reference number that holds information about the job you will do and your personal details. It is not a certificate or paper document.

Your sponsor will give you the certificate of sponsorship (your certificate of sponsorship).

Your sponsor must also give you the information they (your sponsor) used on your certificate (your certificate of sponsorship) about your job, for example your working hours.

Your sponsor must be recognised by the UK government to issue certificates of sponsorship.

Your certificate of sponsorship is valid for 3 months from the date it (your certificate of sponsorship) is assigned to you.

Multiple entry

Your sponsor can give you a multiple entry certificate of sponsorship so you can leave and return to the UK.

Money to support yourself

You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK.

You will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when you apply, unless either:

you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your costs during your first month in the UK, up to £1,270

Your partner and children will also need to prove they can support themselves while they’re in the UK. Check how much they’ll need.

Read the guidance on financial evidence for more information about the money you need and how to prove it.

If your employer can support you instead

Your certificate of sponsorship must confirm this (support). Your employer will need to complete the ‘sponsor certifies maintenance’ section on your certificate. This is under ‘Additional data’.

Documents you must provide

When you apply you’ll need to provide:

your certificate of sponsorship reference number - your employer will give you this

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality

evidence that you have enough personal savings to support yourself in the UK, for example bank statements (unless your certificate of sponsorship shows your employer can support you)

proof of your relationship with your partner or children if they’re applying with you

your tuberculosis (TB) test results if you’re from a country where you have to take the test

You need a blank page in your passport for your visa.

You’ll need to provide a certified translation of any documents that are not in English or Welsh.

Read the guidance on documents you can provide (the guidance on financial evidence).

You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances.

Apply

Read the full guidance (the guidance on financial evidence) before you apply.

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for this visa.

You’ll need to have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre (to get a biometric residence permit) as part of your application.

You’ll have to collect your biometric residence permit (a biometric residence permit) within 10 days of when you said you’d arrive in the UK.

Find out how to get your visa decision faster - this depends on what country you’re in. Check if your visa application centre offers faster decisions and other services.

Apply from inside the UK

You can only extend your existing visa if you’re already in the UK.

Extend your visa

You can apply to extend your Temporary Worker - Charity Worker visa (T5).

You should apply before your current visa (your existing visa) expires.

Eligibility

You must continue to meet the eligibility rules.

You must be in the UK to extend your visa (this visa).

How long you can stay

You can apply to take your stay in the UK up to a maximum of 12 months, or the time on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.

Fees

Check the fees for this visa.

How to extend your visa

You should read the full guidance (the guidance on financial evidence) before you apply.

You can apply online.

Your partner and children

You can add your partner and children to your online application - including children who have turned 18 during your stay.

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo) (biometric information).

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents (supporting documents). You can:

upload them (supporting documents) into the online service

have them (supporting documents) scanned at your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

How long it takes

A decision will be made within 8 weeks of your application date if you use the standard service.

If you use the super priority service a decision will be made:

by the end of the next working day after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment (your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment) is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment (your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment) is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer, for example because:

your supporting documents (supporting documents) need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)

Your partner and children

Your partner and children can apply to join you or to stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they’re eligible. If their application is successful, their visa will end on the same date as yours.

Your relationship

A dependant partner or child is 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’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship when you apply.

Your partner

You must be able to prove that either:

you’re in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK

you’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply

If your child is 16 or over

They must:

live with you (unless they (your child)’re in full-time education at boarding school, college or university)

not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children

be financially supported by you

If your child lives with you, you’ll need to provide evidence of their (your child) address such as:

a bank statement

credit card bills

driving licence

NHS registration document

an official letter from their (your child) university or college

Money they (your child) need to support themselves

Your partner or children must have a certain amount of money available to support themselves while they’re in the UK.

You - or your partner or child - will need:

£285 for your partner

£315 for one child

£200 for each additional child

You - or your partner or child (Your partner or children) - will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of you or them (Your partner or children) applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when they (Your partner or children) apply, unless either:

you have all been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your family’s costs during your first month in the UK - this must be confirmed on your certificate of sponsorship

If your partner or child is applying at a different time to you, they’ll only need to prove they have enough money to support themselves if they have been in the UK for less than one year.

Apply from outside the UK

Your partner and children must apply online.

Each family member will need to complete a separate application and pay the visa fee. They (Your partner and children) must apply before they (Your partner and children) travel to the UK.

They (Your partner and children)’ll also need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

Proving their (your partner or child) identity

As part of their (your partner or child) application, your partner and children (your partner or child) will need to have their (your partner or child) fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre. They (your partner or child) may need to travel to get to their (your partner or child) nearest centre (this could be in another country).

The visa application centre may need to keep their (your partner or child) passport and documents while they process their (your partner or child) application.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they (your partner or child)’ve applied online, proved their (your partner or child) identity and provided their (your partner or child) documents, they (your partner or child)’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

They (your partner or child) may be able to pay to get their (your partner or child) visa faster - check with the visa application centre.

Apply from inside the UK to extend

You can include your partner and children on your application to extend this visa (their (your partner or child) visa). This includes children who were born or have turned 18 during your stay.

If you cannot apply at the same time, your partner or child can apply to extend their visas at a later date. This must be before their current visa expires.

How to apply

Your partner and children must apply online to either:

extend as a partner

extend as a child

They (your partner or child)’ll need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

As part of their application, your partner and children will need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point.

They must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they get a decision. Their application will be withdrawn if they do.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they’ve applied online, proved their identity and provided their documents, they’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

They may be able to pay to get a faster decision - they’ll be told if they can when they apply.

Children born in the UK

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen.

You can apply online for their (a child) visa as your dependant. You must do this if you want to travel in and out of the UK with your child.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.

You must apply to add them (a child) to your visa before they (a child) turn 18 if they (a child) want to stay in the UK.


Temporary Worker - Religious Worker visa (T5)

Overview

You can apply for a Temporary Worker - Religious Worker visa (T5) if:

you want to do religious work in a non-pastoral role or religious order

you meet the other eligibility requirements

This visa (a Temporary Worker - Religious Worker visa (T5)) has replaced the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker - Religious Worker) visa.

If you or your family are from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

If you or your close family member started living in the UK before 1 January 2021, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme.

Otherwise you need a visa to work in the UK.

Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme (the free EU Settlement Scheme).

Sponsorship

You must have a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor before you can apply to come to the UK to work.

The work you do in the UK must relate to your sponsor organisation’s work.

How long it will take

The earliest you can apply for a visa is 3 months before the date you’re due to start work. This date is on your certificate of sponsorship (a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor).

You should get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks when you apply from outside the UK.

Find out about paying for a faster decision.

Application fee

The application fee for each person applying (Application fee) is £244.

The fee (Application fee) is the same whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK.

If you’re from an eligible country

Your application fee (Application fee) will be automatically reduced by £55 if you’re from one of the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden or Turkey.

This reduction only applies to your visa application. Your partner and children will still need to pay the full application fee (Application fee).

Healthcare surcharge

You’ll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge (Healthcare surcharge) as part of your application. Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.

If you are applying to extend from inside the UK

You’ll need to pay £19.20 to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.

Get a faster decision on your application

If you’re applying to extend from inside the UK you can pay an extra £500 for the priority service to get a decision within 5 working days.

You can pay an extra £800 for the super priority service to get a decision:

by the end of the next working day after providing your biometric information if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after providing your biometric information if your appointment is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

Once you’ve got your decision letter, your biometric residence permit will take up to 10 working days to arrive.

How long you can stay

You’ll be given a visa to live and work in the UK for up to 24 months, or up to 28 days more than the time on your certificate of sponsorship. You may be sponsored for a shorter period.

You can enter the UK up to 14 days before the start date of your job.

What you can and cannot do

You can:

study - for some courses you’ll need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate

work for your sponsor in the job described in your certificate of sponsorship

do a second job in the same sector at the same level as your main job for up to 20 hours per week outside the hours of your main job

do a job on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list for up to 20 hours per week outside the hours of your main job

bring your partner and children with you as your ‘dependants’, if they’re eligible

You cannot get public funds.

Eligibility

You must have both of the following:

a certificate of sponsorship reference number from your UK sponsor (your sponsor)

enough money to support yourself in the UK - you’ll usually need to have at least £1,270 available (unless you’re exempt)

Certificate of sponsorship

A certificate of sponsorship is a unique reference number that holds information about the job you’ll do and your personal details. It’s not an actual certificate or paper document.

Your sponsor will give you the certificate of sponsorship (your certificate of sponsorship).

Your sponsor must also give you the information they (your sponsor) used on your certificate (your certificate of sponsorship) about your job, for example your working hours.

Your sponsor must be recognised by the UK government to issue certificates of sponsorship.

Your certificate of sponsorship is valid for 3 months from the date it is assigned to you.

Multiple entry

Your sponsor can give you a multiple entry certificate of sponsorship so you can leave and return to the UK.

Money to support yourself

You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself in the UK.

You will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this (need) when you apply, unless either:

you’ve been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your costs during your first month in the UK, up to £1,270

Your partner and children will also need to prove they can support themselves while they’re in the UK. Check how much they’ll need.

Read the guidance on financial evidence for more information about the money you need and how to prove it.

If your employer can support you instead

Your certificate of sponsorship must confirm this (need). Your employer will need to complete the ‘sponsor certifies maintenance’ section on your certificate. This is under ‘Additional data’.

Documents you must provide

When you apply you’ll need to provide:

your certificate of sponsorship reference number - your employer will give you this

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality

evidence that you have enough personal savings to support yourself in the UK, for example bank statements (unless your certificate of sponsorship shows your employer can support you)

proof of your relationship with your partner or children if they’re applying with you

your tuberculosis (TB) test results if you’re from a country where you have to take the test

You need a blank page in your passport for your visa.

You’ll need to provide a certified translation of any documents that are not in English or Welsh.

You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances.

Read the guide (the guidance on financial evidence) for a full list of documents you can provide.

Apply

Read the full guidance (the guidance on financial evidence) before you apply.

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for this visa.

You’ll need to have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre (to get a biometric residence permit) as part of your application.

You’ll have to collect your biometric residence permit within 10 days of when you said you’d arrive in the UK (even if you actually arrive at a later date).

Find out how to get your visa decision faster - this depends on what country you’re in. Check if your visa application centre offers faster decisions and other services.

Apply from inside the UK

You can only extend your existing visa if you’re already in the UK.

Extend your visa (your existing visa)

You can apply to extend your Temporary Worker - Religious Worker visa (T5).

You should apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility

You must continue to meet the eligibility rules.

You must apply again if you want to change your job within the same organisation or move to a new organisation.

How long you can stay

You can apply to take your stay in the UK up to a maximum of 24 months, or the time on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days - whichever is shorter.

Fees

Check the fees for your visa.

How to extend your visa

You should read the full guidance before you apply.

You must apply online.

Your partner and children

You can add your partner and children to your online application - including children who have turned 18 during your stay.

Providing biometric information and supporting documents

When you apply, you’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide your biometric information (your fingerprints and a photo) (biometric information).

You’ll also need to submit your supporting documents (supporting documents). You can:

upload them (supporting documents) into the online service

have them (supporting documents) scanned at your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

Get help to apply online

You can get help with completing the online form if you:

do not feel confident using a computer or mobile device

do not have internet access

You can only use this service (the online service) if you’re applying to extend your visa in the UK.

You cannot get immigration advice through this service (the online service).

How long it takes

A decision will be made within 8 weeks of your application date if you use the standard service.

If you use the super priority service (the online service) a decision will be made:

by the end of the next working day after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment (your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment) is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment if your appointment (your UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS)) appointment) is at the weekend

Working days are Monday to Friday, not including bank holidays.

You’ll be contacted if your application is complex and will take longer, for example because:

your supporting documents (supporting documents) need to be verified

you need to attend an interview

of your personal circumstances (for example if you have a criminal conviction)

Your partner and children

Your partner and children can apply to join you or to stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they’re eligible. If their application is successful, their visa will end on the same date as yours.

Your relationship

A dependant partner or child is any of the following:

your husband, wife, civil partner or unmarried partner

your child under 18 - including if they (Your partner and children) were born in the UK during your stay

your child over 18 if they (Your partner and children)’re currently in the UK as your dependant

You’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship when you apply.

Your partner

You must be able to prove that either:

you’re in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK

you’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply

If your child is 16 or over

They must:

live with you (unless they’re in full-time education at boarding school, college or university)

not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children

be financially supported by you

If your child lives with you, you’ll need to provide evidence of their address such as:

a bank statement

credit card bills

driving licence

NHS registration document

an official letter from their (your child) university or college

Money they (your child) need to support themselves (your child)

Your partner or children must have a certain amount of money available to support themselves while they’re in the UK.

You - or your partner or child - will need:

£285 for your partner

£315 for one child

£200 for each additional child

You - or your partner or child (Your partner or children) - will need to have had the money available for at least 28 days in a row. Day 28 must be within 31 days of you or them (Your partner or children) applying for this visa.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when they (Your partner or children) apply, unless either:

you have all been in the UK with a valid visa for at least 12 months

your employer can cover your family’s costs during your first month in the UK - this must be confirmed on your certificate of sponsorship

If your partner or child is applying at a different time to you, they’ll only need to prove they have enough money to support themselves if they have been in the UK for less than one year.

Apply from outside the UK

Your partner and children must apply online.

Each family member will need to complete a separate application and pay the visa fee. They must apply before they travel to the UK.

They (Each family member)’ll also need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

Proving their (your partner or child) identity

As part of their application, your partner and children will need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre. They may need to travel to get to their nearest centre (this could be in another country).

The visa application centre (their nearest centre) may need to keep their passport and documents while they (their nearest centre) process their application.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they’ve applied online, proved their identity and provided their documents, they’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

They may be able to pay to get their (your partner or child) visa faster - check with the visa application centre (their nearest centre).

Apply from inside the UK to extend

You can include your partner and children on your application to extend this visa. This includes children who were born or have turned 18 during your stay.

If you cannot apply at the same time, your partner or child can apply to extend their visas at a later date. This must be before their current visa expires.

How to apply

Your partner and children must apply online to either:

extend as a partner

extend as a child

They’ll need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

As part of their (your partner or child) application, your partner and children will need to have their fingerprints and photograph taken at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point.

They (your partner or child) must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they (your partner or child) get a decision. Their (your partner or child) application will be withdrawn if they (your partner or child) do.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once they (your partner or child)’ve applied online, proved their (your partner or child) identity and provided their (your partner or child) documents, they (your partner or child)’ll usually get a decision within 8 weeks.

They (your partner or child) may be able to pay to get a faster decision - they (your partner or child)’ll be told if they (your partner or child) can when they (your partner or child) apply.

Children born in the UK

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen.

You can apply online for their (a child) visa as your dependant. You must do this if you want to travel in and out of the UK with your child.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.

You must apply to add them (a child) to your visa before they (a child) turn 18 if they (a child) want to stay in the UK.


Start-up visa

Overview

You can apply for a Start-up visa if:

you want to set up an innovative business in the UK - it must be something that’s different from anything else on the market

you meet the other eligibility requirements

If you’re from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

If you or your close family member started living in the UK before 1 January 2021, you may be able to apply to the free EU Settlement Scheme.

Otherwise you need a visa to work in the UK.

Irish citizens do not need to apply for a visa or to the EU Settlement Scheme (the free EU Settlement Scheme).

Eligibility

You must be endorsed by an authorised body that is either:

a UK higher education institution

a business organisation with a history of supporting UK entrepreneurs

You must be able to show that your business idea is:

a new idea - you cannot join in a business that is already trading

innovative - you must have an original business idea which is different from anything else on the market

viable - it (an innovative business) has potential for growth

If you’re not eligible for a Start-up visa

You may be eligible for another type of visa to work in the UK.

How long you can stay

You can stay for 2 years if you either:

come to the UK on a Start-up visa

switch to this visa (a Start-up visa) from another visa while in the UK

If you want to stay longer in the UK

You cannot apply to extend this visa (a Start-up visa).

You may be able to switch to an Innovator visa if you set up a business while on a Start-up visa and:

your endorsing body assessed and agreed it (a business)

it (a business) is active, trading and sustainable

you have day to day involvement in it (a business)

If your endorsement is withdrawn

Your visa may be cut short if your endorsement is withdrawn by the endorsing body (your endorsing body). If you want to stay longer, you must re-apply with a new endorsement before your current visa expires.

You can only stay for a total of 2 years even if you’re granted a new visa with a new endorsement.

How to apply

You must apply online.

How you apply depends on whether you’re:

outside the UK and are coming to the UK

inside the UK and switching from a different visa

You can include your partner and children in your application to stay in the UK if they are eligible.

How long it takes

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity and provide your documents.

You may need to allow extra time if you need an appointment to do this. You’ll find out if you need one when you start your application.

Getting a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within:

3 weeks, if you’re outside the UK

8 weeks, if you’re inside the UK

If you need to go to an appointment, you may be able to pay for a faster decision. How you do this depends on whether you’re outside the UK or inside the UK.

Fees

How much you pay for a Start-up visa depends on your situation and where you apply from.

Who you’re applying for | Apply (outside the UK) | Switch (in the UK)

Yourself | £363 | £493

Your partner and children | £363 each person | £493 each person

You must pay the visa fee for each person that applies at the same time as you or applies later to join you in the UK.

If you’re from an eligible country

Your application fee will be automatically reduced by £55 if you’re from one of the following countries:

Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden or Turkey.

This reduction only applies to your visa application. Your partner and children will still need to pay the full application fee.

Healthcare surcharge

You’ll also have to pay the healthcare surcharge (Healthcare surcharge) as part of your application.

Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.

If you’re applying to switch in the UK

You may need to pay £19.20 to have your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) taken.

What you can and cannot do

With a Start-up visa you can:

bring your partner and children with you as your ‘dependants’, if they’re eligible

work in another job, as well as working for your business

travel abroad and return to the UK

You can also switch to this visa (a Start-up visa) from some other visa categories.

You cannot:

apply for most benefits (public funds), or the State Pension

work as a professional sportsperson, for example a sports coach

settle in the UK on this visa (a Start-up visa)

If your application is successful, you’ll get a full list of what you can and cannot do with a Start-up visa.

Eligibility

Before you apply you need to have your business or business idea assessed by an endorsing body.

They (an endorsing body) will provide you with an endorsement letter if your business is viable.

You must also:

be at least 18 years old

meet the English language requirement

be able to prove that you have enough personal savings to support yourself while you’re in the UK

Read the specific requirements for the Start-up visa (a Start-up visa) before you apply.

Supporting yourself

You need to have had at least £1270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before you apply, or if you’ve been in the UK for less than a year and applying to switch to this visa (a Start-up visa).

Read the guidance on financial evidence for more information about the money you need and how to prove it.

Knowledge of English

You’ll usually need to prove your knowledge of the English language (English) when you apply, unless you did this in a previous successful visa application.

Level of English

You must prove you can read, write, speak and understand English to a level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale.

You can prove your knowledge of English by:

passing a Secure English Language Test (SELT) from an approved provider

having a GCSE, A level, Scottish National Qualification level 4 or 5, Scottish Higher or Advanced Higher in English gained through study at a UK school that you began when you were under 18

having a degree-level academic qualification that was taught in English - if you studied abroad, you’ll need to apply for confirmation through Ecctis (formerly UK NARIC) that your qualification is equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree, master’s degree or PhD

Who does not need to prove their knowledge of English

You do not need to prove your knowledge of English if you’re a national of one of the following countries:

Antigua and Barbuda

Australia

the Bahamas

Barbados

Belize

Canada

Dominica

Grenada

Guyana

Jamaica

Malta

New Zealand

St Kitts and Nevis

St Lucia

St Vincent and the Grenadines

Trinidad and Tobago

USA

Documents you'll need to apply

When you apply you need to provide an ‘endorsement letter’ to show that an endorsing  body has assessed your business.

You’ll also need to provide:

a valid passport or other document that shows your identity and nationality

bank statements showing you’ve had at least £1270 in savings in your bank account for 28 consecutive days before you apply

proof that you meet the English language (English) requirement

your tuberculosis test results if you’re from a country where you have to take the test

If your documents are not in English or Welsh you’ll also need to provide a certified translation.

You’ll need a blank page in your passport for your visa if you’re:

from outside the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein

from the EU, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein but do not have a biometric passport with a chip in it

You may need to provide additional documents depending on your circumstances.

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for a Start-up visa.

Check which documents you’ll need to apply.

Your partner or children will need to apply separately.

Proving your identity and supplying supporting documents

As part of your application, you’ll need to prove your identity. How you do this depends on where you’re from and what type of passport you have.

You’ll either:

have your fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre - this is to get a biometric residence permit

use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document - you’ll also create or sign into your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.

If you do need an appointment:

the centre may need to keep your passport and documents while they process your application

you may have to travel to get to your nearest visa application centre (this could be in another country)

Apply for a Start-up visa

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Start now

Continue your application

Sign in to your account using the link from your sign-up email.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision within 3 weeks.

You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example:

if you’re applying with a family member who needs an appointment but you do not

if your supporting documents need to be verified

if you need to attend an interview

because of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

If you’ve applied through a visa application centre, find out if you can pay to get a faster decision - this depends on where you’re applying from.

After you apply

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

You can ask to cancel your application. You’ll only get your fee refunded if UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)) has not started processing your application.

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application. This will explain what you need to do next.

Your partner and children

Your partner and children can apply to join you or to stay in the UK as your ‘dependants’ if they (Your partner and children)’re eligible. If their (Your partner and children) application is successful, their (Your partner and children) visa will end on the same date as yours.

Your relationship

A dependant partner or child is 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’ll need to provide evidence of your relationship when you apply.

Your partner

You must be able to prove that either:

you’re in a civil partnership or marriage that’s recognised in the UK

you’ve been living together in a relationship for at least 2 years when you apply

If your child is 16 or over

They (your child) must:

live with you (unless they (your child)’re in full-time education at boarding school, college or university)

not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children

be financially supported by you

If your child lives with you, you’ll need to provide 2 of the following documents confirming their address:

a bank statement

credit card bills

driving licence

NHS registration document

an official letter from their (your child) university or college

Money they (your child) need to support themselves (your child)

Your partner and children must each have a certain amount of money available to support themselves while they’re in the UK.

In addition to the £1,270 you must have to support yourself, you - or your partner or child - will need:

£285 for your partner

£315 for one child

£200 for each additional child

You’ll need to have had the money in your bank account or your dependant’s bank account for at least 28 days before you or they apply.

You’ll usually need to show proof of this when you apply, unless you or they are applying from inside the UK and you’ve been here for 1 year or more.

Apply from outside the UK

Your partner and children must either:

apply online as a partner

apply online as a child

Each family member will need to complete a separate application and pay the visa fee. They must apply before they travel to the UK.

They (Each family member)’ll also need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

As part of their (Each family member) application, they (Each family member)’ll need to have their (Each family member) fingerprints and photograph taken at a visa application centre. This is to get a biometric residence permit, which they (Each family member)’ll need to collect within 10 days of when they (Each family member) said they (Each family member)’d arrive in the UK.

Apply from inside the UK (switch)

Apply for your partner or child’s visa at the same time as you switch your own visa. This includes children who were born or have turned 18 during your stay.

If you cannot apply at the same time, your partner or child can apply to switch their visas at a later date. This must be before their current visa expires.

Your partner or children will not be able to apply to switch to a Start-up visa if they are currently in the UK in one of the following circumstances:

on a visit visa

on a short-term student visa

on a Parent of a Child Student visa

on a seasonal worker visa

on a domestic worker in a private household visa

on immigration bail

they (Your partner or children) were given permission to stay outside the immigration rules, for example on compassionate grounds

How to apply

Your partner and child must apply online to either:

switch to a Start-up visa as your partner

switch to a Start-up visa as your child

They (Each family member)’ll need your application number - you’ll get this when you apply. This number is called a Global Web Form (GWF) or a Unique Application Number (UAN). You’ll find it on emails and letters from the Home Office about your application.

As part of their (Each family member) application, they (Each family member)’ll be asked to make an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to provide their (Each family member) biometric information (fingerprints and a photo).

They (Each family member)’ll also need to submit their (Each family member) supporting documents. They (Each family member) can:

upload them (Each family member) into the online service

have them (Each family member) scanned at their (Each family member) UKVCAS appointment

They (Each family member) must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until they (Each family member) get a decision. Their (Each family member) application will be withdrawn if they (Each family member) do.

Getting a faster decision

They (Each family member) may be able to pay to get a faster decision - they (Each family member)’ll be told if they (Each family member) can when they (Each family member) apply.

Children born in the UK

If you have a child while you’re in the UK, they do not automatically become a British citizen.

You can apply online for their (Each family member) dependant visa. You must do this if you want to travel in and out of the UK with your child.

You’ll need to provide a full UK birth certificate for each child, showing the names of both parents.

You must apply for their (Each family member) dependant visa before they (Each family member) turn 18 if they (Each family member) want to stay in the UK.

Switch to this visa (their (Each family member) dependant visa)

You might be able to apply to change (‘switch’) to a Start-up visa if you’re already in the UK on a different type of visa.

Your partner or children will need to apply separately.

You should apply before your current visa expires.

Eligibility

You can apply to switch to this visa (their (Each family member) dependant visa) if you meet the eligibility requirements.

Who cannot apply to switch to this visa (their (Each family member) dependant visa)

You cannot switch to this visa (their (Each family member) dependant visa) if you have one of the following:

a visit visa

a short-term student visa

a Parent of a Child Student visa

a seasonal worker visa

a domestic worker in a private household visa

immigration bail

permission to stay outside the immigration rules, for example on compassionate grounds

You must leave the UK and make your application from abroad if you’re here on a different type of visa.

How long you can stay

You can stay in the UK for 2 years on a Start-up visa. Any time you’ve already spent in the UK on a Tier 1 (Graduate Entrepreneur) visa counts as part of the 2 years.

How much it costs

Check the visa application fees.

If you’ve been in the UK for less than 1 year, you’ll also need to prove you have enough money to support yourself.

Proving your identity and supplying supporting documents

You’ll either:

You’ll be told what you need to do when you apply.

If you do need an appointment:

the centre may need to keep your passport and documents while they process your application

you may have to travel to get to your nearest visa application centre (this could be in another country)

Apply to switch to a Start-up visa

You must apply online.

Once you’ve started your application, you can save your form and complete it later.

Start now

You must not travel outside of the UK, Ireland, the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man until you get a decision. Your application will be withdrawn if you do.

Continue your application

Sign in to your account (your UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account) using the link from your sign-up email.

How long it takes to get a decision

You’ll be contacted if your application will take longer, for example:

if you’re applying with a family member who needs an appointment but you do not

if your supporting documents need to be verified

if you need to attend an interview

because of your personal circumstances, for example if you have a criminal conviction

After you apply

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it (your application) contact UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

Once you’ve applied you can stay in the UK until you’ve been given a decision, as long as you applied before your last visa expired.