I currently hold a Creative and Sporting visa. I live in the UK and work as an actor for a film company. Filming has been extended by two months due to delays. My certificate of sponsorship will last for two years. For how long can I extend my visa?

You can extend your visa for whichever is the shortest of:

Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5)

Overview

You must apply for a Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) if:

you’ve been offered work in the UK as a sports person or creative worker

you meet the other eligibility requirements

A creative worker is someone who works in the creative industry, for example an actor, dancer, musician or film crew member.

This visa has replaced the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting) 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.

Sponsorship

You need to 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 takes

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.

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 is £244.

The fee is the same whether you’re applying from inside or outside 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 as part of your application. Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.

If you’re applying to extend or switch 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 or switch in 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 can come to the UK for a maximum of up to 12 months, or the time given in your certificate of sponsorship plus up to 28 days, whichever is shorter.

You may be able to extend your visa.

Your stay must start no more than 14 days before the start date on your certificate of sponsorship.

If you intend to work in the UK for 3 months or less, you may be able to use the Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) concession instead of applying for the visa.

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 and 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

work as a sportsperson for your national team while it is playing in a British University and College Sport (BUCS) competition

work as a sports broadcaster

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

You cannot:

get public funds

start your own business

Eligibility

Your eligibility for a Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) depends on whether you’re a sports person or a creative worker.

Sports person

You need to make a significant contribution to your sport at the highest level in the UK to be eligible for this visa.

You’ll also need all of the following:

a certificate of sponsorship reference number

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

Creative worker

You need all of the following to be eligible for the creative category:

make a unique contribution to the UK labour market, for example you’re internationally renowned or are required for continuity

certificate of sponsorship reference number

be paid the minimum salary as set by Equity, PACT or BECTU (except for models, musicians or circuses)

Certificate of sponsorship

You need a licensed sponsor to give you a certificate of sponsorship before you can apply to work in the UK.

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

Your sponsor will give you your certificate of sponsorship reference number.

They must also give you some other information to help you to apply, for example how much you’ll be paid.

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

Changing your sponsor

You must apply again and meet all the eligibility rules if you want to change your sponsor within the same organisation or move to a new organisation.

Changing your sponsor does not change how long you can stay in the UK. You can only stay the maximum length of time allowed by this visa.

Multiple entry

Your sponsor needs to give you a multiple entry certificate of sponsorship if you need to leave and come back to the UK as part of the job you’re doing.

Multiple jobs when you’re a creative worker

Your sponsor can give you a certificate that covers the entire length of your stay, even if you need to perform at more than one engagement. If you’re working for more than one sponsor, you can get a  certificate from each sponsor.

There cannot be a gap of more than 14 days between each job. If you leave the UK and come back, your time away will not count towards those 14 days.

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

a letter of endorsement from your sport’s governing body, if you’re applying as a sportsperson or coach

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 guide for a full list of documents you can provide.

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

Apply

Read the full guidance 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 or switch to this visa if you’re already in the UK.

Extend your visa

You can apply to extend your Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5).

You should apply before your current visa expires.

You cannot extend your stay if you’ve used the Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) concession to enter the UK.

Eligibility

You must continue to meet the eligibility rules.

You must be in the UK to extend your visa.

How long you can stay

Creative worker

You can extend your visa for whichever is the shortest of:

up to 12 months

the time on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days

the time needed to extend your stay to the maximum of 24 months

You must stay with the same sponsor.

Sports person

You can extend your visa up to 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 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).

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

upload them into the online service

have them scanned at your 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 appointment if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS appointment 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.

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

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)

Switch to this visa

You can switch to a Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) if you’re in the UK on a Standard Visitor visa and your sponsor gave you a certificate of sponsorship for this visa before you came to the UK.

You should apply before your current visa expires.

You cannot switch to this visa if you’ve used the Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) concession to enter the UK.

How long you can stay

You can stay for a maximum of up to 12 months after switching to a Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5).

Fees

Check the fees for this visa.

How to switch to this visa

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

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

upload them into the online service

have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment

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 appointment if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS appointment 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.

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

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)

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’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 university or college

Money they need to support themselves

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 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 apply online.

Each family member will need to complete a separate application and pay the visa fee.

They’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 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 may need to keep their passport and documents while they 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 visa faster - check with the visa application centre.

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

You can include your partner and children on your application to extend or switch to 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 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 visa as your dependants if they 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 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 as a partner

extend or switch 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.

Proving their identity

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 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 for their dependant visa before they turn 18 if they want to stay in the UK.

Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) concession

You can enter the UK without applying for a visa in advance if you:

have a valid Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) certificate of sponsorship

are coming to work in the UK for 3 months or less

do not normally need a visa to enter the UK as a visitor

You must still meet the Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) eligibility criteria.

You will not be able to extend your stay while you are in the UK, or switch to another temporary worker visa or a Skilled Worker visa.

Your partner and children can travel with you if they also do not normally need a visa to enter the UK as a visitor.

When you arrive in the UK

You must see an immigration officer when you arrive in the UK - do not use the automatic ePassport gates. The officer will check:

your certificate of sponsorship is valid

you have enough money to support yourself

You will not be allowed to work if you use an automatic ePassport gate. You must see an immigration officer.

If you enter the UK from Ireland

If you’re travelling to the UK from Ireland using the Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) concession, you must apply for remote clearance at least 72 hours before you arrive in the UK.

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 and 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

work as a sportsperson for your national team while it is playing in a British University and College Sport (BUCS) competition

work as a sports broadcaster

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

You cannot:

get public funds

start your own business

extend your stay or switch to another visa

the time needed to extend your stay to the maximum of 24 months

Overview

You must apply for a Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) if:

you’ve been offered work in the UK as a sports person or creative worker

you meet the other eligibility requirements

A creative worker is someone who works in the creative industry, for example an actor, dancer, musician or film crew member.

This visa has replaced the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting) visa.

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

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.

Sponsorship

You need to 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 takes

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 is £244.

The fee is the same whether you’re applying from inside or outside 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:

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 as part of your application. Check how much you’ll have to pay before you apply.

If you’re applying to extend or switch 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

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 may be able to extend your visa.

Your stay must start no more than 14 days before the start date on your certificate of sponsorship.

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 and 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

work as a sportsperson for your national team while it is playing in a British University and College Sport (BUCS) competition

work as a sports broadcaster

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

You cannot:

get public funds

start your own business

Eligibility

Your eligibility for a Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) depends on whether you’re a sports person or a creative worker.

Sports person

You need to make a significant contribution to your sport at the highest level in the UK to be eligible for this visa.

You’ll also need all of the following:

a certificate of sponsorship reference number

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

Creative worker

You need all of the following to be eligible for the creative category:

make a unique contribution to the UK labour market, for example you’re internationally renowned or are required for continuity

certificate of sponsorship reference number

be paid the minimum salary as set by Equity, PACT or BECTU (except for models, musicians or circuses)

Certificate of sponsorship

You need a licensed sponsor to give you a certificate of sponsorship before you can apply to work in the UK.

Your sponsor will give you your certificate of sponsorship reference number.

They must also give you some other information to help you to apply, for example how much you’ll be paid.

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

Changing your sponsor

Changing your sponsor does not change how long you can stay in the UK. You can only stay the maximum length of time allowed by this visa.

Multiple entry

Multiple jobs when you’re a creative worker

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

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

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

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

a letter of endorsement from your sport’s governing body, if you’re applying as a sportsperson or coach

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 guide for a full list of documents you can provide.

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

Apply

Read the full guidance before you apply.

Apply from outside the UK

You must apply online for this visa.

Apply from inside the UK

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

Extend your visa

You can apply to extend your Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5).

You should apply before your current visa expires.

You cannot extend your stay if you’ve used the Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) concession to enter the UK.

Eligibility

You must continue to meet the eligibility rules.

You must be in the UK to extend your visa.

How long you can stay

Creative worker

You can extend your visa for whichever is the shortest of:

up to 12 months

the time on your certificate of sponsorship plus 14 days

the time needed to extend your stay to the maximum of 24 months

You must stay with the same sponsor.

Sports person

You can extend your visa up to 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 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

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

upload them into the online service

have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment

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 appointment if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS appointment 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.

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

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)

Switch to this visa

You should apply before your current visa expires.

You cannot switch to this visa if you’ve used the Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) concession to enter the UK.

How long you can stay

You can stay for a maximum of up to 12 months after switching to a Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5).

Fees

Check the fees for this visa.

How to switch to this visa

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

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

upload them into the online service

have them scanned at your UKVCAS appointment

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 appointment if your appointment is on a weekday

2 working days after your UKVCAS appointment 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.

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

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)

Your partner and children

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’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 university or college

Money they need to support themselves

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’ll usually need to show proof of this when they 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

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.

Proving their identity

The visa application centre may need to keep their passport and documents while they 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 visa faster - check with the visa application centre.

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

Your partner or children cannot apply to switch to your visa as your dependants if they 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 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 as a partner

extend or switch as a child

Proving their identity

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 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 for their dependant visa before they turn 18 if they want to stay in the UK.

Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) concession

You can enter the UK without applying for a visa in advance if you:

have a valid Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) certificate of sponsorship

are coming to work in the UK for 3 months or less

do not normally need a visa to enter the UK as a visitor

You must still meet the Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5) eligibility criteria.

You will not be able to extend your stay while you are in the UK, or switch to another temporary worker visa or a Skilled Worker visa.

Your partner and children can travel with you if they also do not normally need a visa to enter the UK as a visitor.

When you arrive in the UK

You must see an immigration officer when you arrive in the UK - do not use the automatic ePassport gates. The officer will check:

your certificate of sponsorship is valid

you have enough money to support yourself

You will not be allowed to work if you use an automatic ePassport gate. You must see an immigration officer.

If you enter the UK from Ireland

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 and 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

work as a sportsperson for your national team while it is playing in a British University and College Sport (BUCS) competition

work as a sports broadcaster

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

You cannot:

get public funds

start your own business

extend your stay or switch to another visa


I have had my veterans badge for over 5 years now, or at least I though so. I recently realized that I had misplaced it and am currently looking to replace it. Do I have to pay for the replacement?

You can get an armed forces veterans badge if you’ve served in any of the UK armed forces - there’s no fee.

Apply for a veterans badge or a medal

Apply for a veterans badge

Eligibility

You can apply if you were in the:

army

Royal Navy

Royal Marines

Royal Air Force (RAF)

volunteer or regular reserves

You cannot apply if you:

served in the armed forces of another country

served alongside the UK armed forces, for example in the Canadian Navy or Royal Australian Air Force

If you’re applying on behalf of someone who’s died

You can only apply on behalf of a veteran who’s died if you get either:

a War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension

compensation under the Survivors Guaranteed Income Payment (SGIP)

How to apply

Download and fill in the application for an armed forces veterans badge.

You can also call the enquiries line to get a paper application form sent to you.

You’ll need to give as much information on the form as possible, such as:

the force you served in, for example the army or Royal Navy

service number

period of service

Post the form to the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Medal Office - the address is on the form. Do not send the form by email.

After you’ve applied

You’ll usually get your veterans badge within 6 to 8 weeks of applying.

You can also apply for a medal if you’re eligible.

If you lose your badge, you can apply for a replacement.

Get help

If you need to contact MOD about your veterans badge application, you can phone, fax or send an email to dbs-modmo-vetsbadge@mod.gov.uk.

You cannot apply for a veterans badge by email.

Apply for a medal

You can apply for a medal if you served in the armed forces and are eligible.

Find out the types of medal the Ministry of Defence (MOD) issues.

You can only apply for World War 1 medals if the original was returned.

Eligibility

You can apply if you were awarded a medal for service in any of the following:

the army

the Royal Navy

the Royal Marines

the Royal Air Force (RAF)

the Home Guard

the reserve forces

You must meet the eligibility requirements for the medal you’re applying for.

If you’re applying for someone else’s medal

You can apply on behalf of a veteran if you have lasting power of attorney.

If the veteran has died, you must be the official next of kin. The general rules for the official next of kin are:

the person’s spouse or civil partner has the first claim to the medal, and then the eldest child

if there’s no spouse or child, the parent is entitled to apply

if there’s no spouse, child or parent, the eldest grandchild is entitled to apply

How to apply

Download and fill in the medal application form.

Apply through your unit if you’re still serving in the armed forces.

If you’re applying on behalf of someone else, you must include a copy of either your lasting power of attorney or a death certificate.

Post the form, along with any supporting documents, to the MOD Medal Office - the address is on the form. Do not send the form by email.

After you’ve applied

You’ll usually get your medal within 12 weeks of sending the application form.

You can apply for a replacement medal if the original’s been stolen or accidentally destroyed, for example in a fire.

Get help

If you need to contact MOD about your medal application, email dbs-medals@mod.gov.uk.

Replace a badge or medal

You can get the first replacement veterans badge for free.

You may be able to get a replacement medal - it depends how it was lost. You’ll have to pay for the replacement medal plus a fee.

Replace a veterans badge

Follow the instructions for applying for a veterans badge - you can use the same form.

You’ll usually get your replacement veterans badge within 6 to 8 weeks of applying.

You do not have to pay a fee if it’s the first veterans badge you’re replacing.

Replace a medal

You can only get a replacement medal from the Ministry of Defence (MOD) if it was stolen or destroyed, for example in a fire or flood. The medal must have been awarded for service after World War 1.

You’ll need to show proof by providing a copy of either a:

police crime report

successful insurance claim listing the individual items

You can also buy replacement medals from a licensed medal dealer.

How to apply

Download and fill in the medal application form to ask for a replacement medal. Post the form to the MOD Medal Office, along with:

a letter explaining how the medal was stolen or destroyed

a copy of the police report or insurance claim

The address is on the form.

Contact your unit’s human resources (HR) department if you’re currently serving in the armed forces.

After you’ve applied

You’ll get a letter from the Medal Office - usually within 10 working days of when your application’s received.

You’ll be told how much the replacement will cost and how to pay if your application’s successful. The cost depends on the type of medal. It includes an administration fee.

You’ll get the replacement within 4 weeks from the Medal Office getting your payment.

Apply for a UK merchant seafarers veterans badge

You can apply for a UK merchant seafarers veterans badge if you:

were a Merchant Navy seafarer or fisherman

served in a vessel used to support the UK Armed Forces

If you’re applying on behalf of someone who’s died

You can only apply on behalf of a veteran who’s died if you get a War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension.

How to apply

You can apply for a badge through the Merchant Navy Association.

Members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary

If you’re a member of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, apply for the armed forces veterans badge.

Apply for a UK merchant navy medal

You can apply for a UK merchant navy medal if you were a member of the merchant navy and you:

served in a vessel used to support the UK armed forces

meet the eligibility requirements for the medal you’re applying for

How to apply

Complete the application form and send it to the address on the form. You’ll also need to send your seaman’s discharge book.

If you’re applying for someone else’s medal

You can apply for someone else if either:

they’ve died

you have lasting power of attorney

You must include a copy of the death certificate or your lasting power of attorney.

If the veteran has died, you must be the official next of kin. The general rules are:

the person’s spouse or civil partner has first claim to the medal, and then the eldest child

if there’s no spouse or child, the eldest grandchild is entitled to apply

After you’ve applied

You’ll get a decision within 30 working days of your application being received.

Get help

Email seafarers_registry@mcga.gov.uk if you need help with your application.

Replace a lost or stolen medal

You’ll need to complete the application form if your medal is lost or has been stolen.

If you want to appeal or complain

You can write to or email the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Medal Office if you want to:

appeal a decision

complain about how you’ve been treated

You should include any new evidence you have if you make an appeal.

You can get the first replacement veterans badge for free.

Apply for a veterans badge or a medal

Apply for a veterans badge

Eligibility

You can apply if you were in the:

army

Royal Navy

Royal Marines

Royal Air Force (RAF)

volunteer or regular reserves

You cannot apply if you:

served in the armed forces of another country

If you’re applying on behalf of someone who’s died

You can only apply on behalf of a veteran who’s died if you get either:

a War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension

compensation under the Survivors Guaranteed Income Payment (SGIP)

How to apply

Download and fill in the application for an armed forces veterans badge.

You can also call the enquiries line to get a paper application form sent to you.

You’ll need to give as much information on the form as possible, such as:

the force you served in, for example the army or Royal Navy

service number

period of service

After you’ve applied

You’ll usually get your veterans badge within 6 to 8 weeks of applying.

You can also apply for a medal if you’re eligible.

If you lose your badge, you can apply for a replacement.

Get help

You cannot apply for a veterans badge by email.

Apply for a medal

You can apply for a medal if you served in the armed forces and are eligible.

Find out the types of medal the Ministry of Defence (MOD) issues.

You can only apply for World War 1 medals if the original was returned.

Eligibility

You can apply if you were awarded a medal for service in any of the following:

the army

the Royal Navy

the Royal Marines

the Royal Air Force (RAF)

the Home Guard

the reserve forces

You must meet the eligibility requirements for the medal you’re applying for.

If you’re applying for someone else’s medal

You can apply on behalf of a veteran if you have lasting power of attorney.

if there’s no spouse or child, the parent is entitled to apply

if there’s no spouse, child or parent, the eldest grandchild is entitled to apply

How to apply

Download and fill in the medal application form.

Apply through your unit if you’re still serving in the armed forces.

After you’ve applied

You’ll usually get your medal within 12 weeks of sending the application form.

Get help

If you need to contact MOD about your medal application, email dbs-medals@mod.gov.uk.

Replace a badge or medal

You can get the first replacement veterans badge for free.

Replace a veterans badge

You’ll usually get your replacement veterans badge within 6 to 8 weeks of applying.

You do not have to pay a fee if it’s the first veterans badge you’re replacing.

Replace a medal

You’ll need to show proof by providing a copy of either a:

police crime report

successful insurance claim listing the individual items

You can also buy replacement medals from a licensed medal dealer.

How to apply

a letter explaining how the medal was stolen or destroyed

a copy of the police report or insurance claim

The address is on the form.

After you’ve applied

You’ll get the replacement within 4 weeks from the Medal Office getting your payment.

Apply for a UK merchant seafarers veterans badge

You can apply for a UK merchant seafarers veterans badge if you:

were a Merchant Navy seafarer or fisherman

served in a vessel used to support the UK Armed Forces

If you’re applying on behalf of someone who’s died

How to apply

You can apply for a badge through the Merchant Navy Association.

Members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary

Apply for a UK merchant navy medal

served in a vessel used to support the UK armed forces

meet the eligibility requirements for the medal you’re applying for

How to apply

If you’re applying for someone else’s medal

You can apply for someone else if either:

they’ve died

you have lasting power of attorney

You must include a copy of the death certificate or your lasting power of attorney.

If the veteran has died, you must be the official next of kin. The general rules are:

if there’s no spouse or child, the eldest grandchild is entitled to apply

After you’ve applied

You’ll get a decision within 30 working days of your application being received.

Get help

Email seafarers_registry@mcga.gov.uk if you need help with your application.

Replace a lost or stolen medal

If you want to appeal or complain

You can write to or email the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Medal Office if you want to:

appeal a decision

complain about how you’ve been treated

You should include any new evidence you have if you make an appeal.

You do not have to pay a fee if it’s the first veterans badge you’re replacing.

Apply for a veterans badge or a medal

Apply for a veterans badge

Eligibility

You can apply if you were in the:

army

Royal Navy

Royal Marines

Royal Air Force (RAF)

volunteer or regular reserves

You cannot apply if you:

served in the armed forces of another country

If you’re applying on behalf of someone who’s died

You can only apply on behalf of a veteran who’s died if you get either:

a War Widow’s or Widower’s Pension

compensation under the Survivors Guaranteed Income Payment (SGIP)

How to apply

Download and fill in the application for an armed forces veterans badge.

You can also call the enquiries line to get a paper application form sent to you.

You’ll need to give as much information on the form as possible, such as:

the force you served in, for example the army or Royal Navy

service number

period of service

After you’ve applied

You’ll usually get your veterans badge within 6 to 8 weeks of applying.

You can also apply for a medal if you’re eligible.

If you lose your badge, you can apply for a replacement.

Get help

You cannot apply for a veterans badge by email.

Apply for a medal

You can apply for a medal if you served in the armed forces and are eligible.

Find out the types of medal the Ministry of Defence (MOD) issues.

You can only apply for World War 1 medals if the original was returned.

Eligibility

You can apply if you were awarded a medal for service in any of the following:

the army

the Royal Navy

the Royal Marines

the Royal Air Force (RAF)

the Home Guard

the reserve forces

You must meet the eligibility requirements for the medal you’re applying for.

If you’re applying for someone else’s medal

You can apply on behalf of a veteran if you have lasting power of attorney.

if there’s no spouse or child, the parent is entitled to apply

if there’s no spouse, child or parent, the eldest grandchild is entitled to apply

How to apply

Download and fill in the medal application form.

Apply through your unit if you’re still serving in the armed forces.

After you’ve applied

You’ll usually get your medal within 12 weeks of sending the application form.

Get help

If you need to contact MOD about your medal application, email dbs-medals@mod.gov.uk.

Replace a badge or medal

You can get the first replacement veterans badge for free.

Replace a veterans badge

Follow the instructions for applying for a veterans badge - you can use the same form.

You’ll usually get your replacement veterans badge within 6 to 8 weeks of applying.

You do not have to pay a fee if it’s the first veterans badge you’re replacing.

Replace a medal

You’ll need to show proof by providing a copy of either a:

police crime report

successful insurance claim listing the individual items

You can also buy replacement medals from a licensed medal dealer.

How to apply

a letter explaining how the medal was stolen or destroyed

a copy of the police report or insurance claim

The address is on the form.

After you’ve applied

You’ll get the replacement within 4 weeks from the Medal Office getting your payment.

Apply for a UK merchant seafarers veterans badge

You can apply for a UK merchant seafarers veterans badge if you:

were a Merchant Navy seafarer or fisherman

served in a vessel used to support the UK Armed Forces

If you’re applying on behalf of someone who’s died

How to apply

You can apply for a badge through the Merchant Navy Association.

Members of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary

Apply for a UK merchant navy medal

served in a vessel used to support the UK armed forces

meet the eligibility requirements for the medal you’re applying for

How to apply

If you’re applying for someone else’s medal

You can apply for someone else if either:

they’ve died

you have lasting power of attorney

You must include a copy of the death certificate or your lasting power of attorney.

If the veteran has died, you must be the official next of kin. The general rules are:

if there’s no spouse or child, the eldest grandchild is entitled to apply

After you’ve applied

You’ll get a decision within 30 working days of your application being received.

Get help

Email seafarers_registry@mcga.gov.uk if you need help with your application.

Replace a lost or stolen medal

You’ll need to complete the application form if your medal is lost or has been stolen.

If you want to appeal or complain

You can write to or email the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Medal Office if you want to:

appeal a decision

complain about how you’ve been treated

You should include any new evidence you have if you make an appeal.


I run a mid sized fleet of lorries and next month have been contracted to take an abnormally large load over to the continent. I have been told that there is a lot of paperwork involved in this. What sort of things do I need to do to ensure that my transportation is legal?

If you’re responsible for transporting an abnormal load, you need to follow regulations for notifying the authorities.

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

an axle load of more than 10,000kg for a single non-driving axle and 11,500kg for a single driving axle

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

notify the police, highways and bridge authorities of your abnormal load movements around the road network

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

You must allow time to get the necessary clearances from the police, highway and bridge authorities. For example, a Special Order application must be completed 10 weeks before the scheduled date of the move.

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

Check with each country you’re travelling through to find out if the load you’re transporting counts as abnormal - if it does, you’ll need to:

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

the police

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

highway authorities

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

register your trailer

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border

Transporting abnormal loads

Abnormal loads

An ‘abnormal load’ is a vehicle that has any of the following:

a weight of more than 44,000kg

a width of more than 2.9 metres

a rigid length of more than 18.65 metres

Other measurements may apply if you’re transporting a load abroad.

Notifying the authorities

Depending on the load you’re moving and your route, you may need to give advance warning to:

the police

highway authorities

bridge and structure owners like Network Rail

You can use Highways England’s electronic service delivery for abnormal loads (ESDAL) to:

plot your route

get advance notice of any possible route problems

save vehicle details and routes for future use

If you do not use ESDAL you must fill in an abnormal loads movement application form.

Give advance notice

Read the factsheet for notice requirements.

Taking an abnormal load abroad

If you’re taking an abnormal load outside the UK, you’ll need to:

register your trailer

get an abnormal load trailer keeper’s certificate

Check if a load is abnormal in another country

Some countries measure abnormal loads differently from the UK.

keep the certificate in your vehicle - you’ll need to show it at the border


I found a street dog and decided to take it in. After visiting the vet I was informed it had no chip and was most definitely a stray and did not belong to anyone. They gave it the necessary medicine as well as a microchip. That was a little over 2 weeks ago and today while I was petting my dog the chip fell out. What kind of information will I need to make a report?

You can report suspected incidents with animal microchips including:

Report a suspected problem with an animal medicine or microchip

Overview

You can report an unexpected reaction to an animal medicine or microchip to the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD). You can also report if an animal medicine has not worked.

How you report the reaction depends on whether:

an animal has reacted to animal medicine or to a microchip

a human has reacted to animal medicine

VMD will use the information you provide to help make sure that animal medicines and microchips are used safely and effectively.

Report an animal's reaction to animal medicine

You can report when a medicine may not have worked, or could have made your animal unwell.

You’ll be asked for details of:

the medicine, including batch number and marketing authorisation number if known

the animal that was affected, for example the species, breed and age

when and how the medicine was first given to the animal

the symptoms

Send your report

If you cannot report online

Download and fill in the form for reporting reactions in animals. Send it to the address on the form.

Report an animal's reaction to a microchip

a reaction to the chip being implanted, such as injury, infection or prolonged bleeding

if a chip’s moved from where it was implanted or has come out

a chip that does not read properly

You’ll need the microchip number to make a report.

Send your report

Contact VMD if you cannot report the incident online.

Report a person's reaction to animal medicine

You can report a suspected reaction you or someone else has had to an animal medicine while using it on an animal, for example a skin allergy.

You’ll be asked for details of:

the medicine, including the batch number and marketing authorisation number (if you know it)

the people affected - and how and when they came into contact with the medicine

the symptoms

Send your report

If you cannot report online

Download and fill in the form for reporting reactions in humans. Send it to the address on the form.

Contact VMD

Contact the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) Pharmacovigilance Team if you have any questions about reporting reactions.

Overview

a human has reacted to animal medicine

You’ll be asked for details of:

the symptoms

Send your report

If you cannot report online

Report an animal's reaction to a microchip

a chip that does not read properly

Send your report

You’ll be asked for details of:

the symptoms

Send your report

If you cannot report online

Contact VMD

Overview

a human has reacted to animal medicine

You’ll be asked for details of:

the symptoms

Send your report

If you cannot report online

Report an animal's reaction to a microchip

a chip that does not read properly

Send your report

You’ll be asked for details of:

the symptoms

Send your report

If you cannot report online

Contact VMD


Me and my girlfriend are in a relationship for 5 years now. We didn't have kids. I am a British citizen and my wife is from Mexico. We planning for a surrogate in Mexico Once our surrogate gives birth in Mexico, what is the process to bring the child to UK and the parental order ?

If you use a surrogate, they will be the child’s legal parent at birth.

Surrogacy: legal rights of parents and surrogates

Overview

Surrogacy is legal in the UK, but if you make a surrogacy agreement it cannot be enforced by the law.

The legal parents at birth

If the surrogate is married or in a civil partnership, their spouse or civil partner will be the child’s second parent at birth, unless they did not give their permission.

Legal parenthood can be transferred by parental order or adoption after the child is born.

If there is disagreement about who the child’s legal parents should be, the courts will make a decision based on the best interests of the child.

Surrogacy agreements

The intended parents and surrogate can record how they want the arrangement to work in a surrogacy agreement.

Surrogacy agreements are not enforceable by UK law, even if you have a signed document with your surrogate and have paid their expenses.

You cannot pay a surrogate in the UK, except for their reasonable expenses.

Donor’s rights

If you use donated sperm or eggs with your surrogate, read about the rights of your donor.

Read more about surrogacy and the legal process.

Become the child’s legal parent

You must apply for a parental order or adoption if you want to become the legal parent of the child.

Parental orders

You can apply for a parental order with a partner or on your own.

Apply with a partner

One of you must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must be one of the following:

married

civil partners

living as partners

You must also:

have the child living with you

reside permanently in either the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

You must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Apply as an individual

You must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must also:

have the child living with you

You can apply for a child of any age if you apply before 4 July 2019. From 4 July 2019 you must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

How to apply in England or Wales

You must fill in a ‘C51 application form for a parental order’ and take or send it to a family court.

You do not have to use your local family court, but you’ll need to explain why if you do not.

You’ll need to provide the child’s full birth certificate and will also be charged a court fee of £215.

The court will then set a date for the hearing and issue you with a ‘C52 acknowledgement form’ that you must give to the child’s legal parent, in other words, your surrogate.

The surrogate and anyone else who’s a parent of the child must agree to the parental order by filling in form A101A.

How to apply in Scotland or Northern Ireland

The process is different if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, contact the Court of Session or Sheriff Court.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Courts and Tribunals Service.

Adoption

If neither you or your partner are related to the child, adoption is the only way you can become the child’s legal parent.

Children born outside the UK

If your surrogate gives birth abroad, you can only apply for a parental order if you and your partner are living in the UK.

If the child is not a UK or EU national, they will need a visa to enter the UK during this process.

Using a surrogate abroad can be complicated because different countries have different rules. You may want to get legal advice or contact The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority for more information.

You can also read about returning to the UK with your child.

Pay and leave

You and your partner may be eligible for adoption pay and leave and paternity pay and leave if you use a surrogate.

If you’re not eligible for paid leave, you may be able to take parental leave or annual leave.

Surrogates

Every pregnant employee has the right to 52 weeks’ maternity leave and to return to their job after this.

What a surrogate does after the child is born does not affect their right to maternity leave.

Legal parenthood can be transferred by parental order or adoption after the child is born.

Overview

Surrogacy is legal in the UK, but if you make a surrogacy agreement it cannot be enforced by the law.

The legal parents at birth

If you use a surrogate, they will be the child’s legal parent at birth.

Surrogacy agreements

The intended parents and surrogate can record how they want the arrangement to work in a surrogacy agreement.

You cannot pay a surrogate in the UK, except for their reasonable expenses.

Donor’s rights

If you use donated sperm or eggs with your surrogate, read about the rights of your donor.

Read more about surrogacy and the legal process.

Become the child’s legal parent

You must apply for a parental order or adoption if you want to become the legal parent of the child.

Parental orders

You can apply for a parental order with a partner or on your own.

Apply with a partner

One of you must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must be one of the following:

married

civil partners

living as partners

You must also:

have the child living with you

reside permanently in either the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

You must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Apply as an individual

You must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must also:

have the child living with you

How to apply in England or Wales

You must fill in a ‘C51 application form for a parental order’ and take or send it to a family court.

You do not have to use your local family court, but you’ll need to explain why if you do not.

You’ll need to provide the child’s full birth certificate and will also be charged a court fee of £215.

The surrogate and anyone else who’s a parent of the child must agree to the parental order by filling in form A101A.

How to apply in Scotland or Northern Ireland

The process is different if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, contact the Court of Session or Sheriff Court.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Courts and Tribunals Service.

Adoption

Children born outside the UK

If the child is not a UK or EU national, they will need a visa to enter the UK during this process.

You can also read about returning to the UK with your child.

Pay and leave

You and your partner may be eligible for adoption pay and leave and paternity pay and leave if you use a surrogate.

If you’re not eligible for paid leave, you may be able to take parental leave or annual leave.

Surrogates

Every pregnant employee has the right to 52 weeks’ maternity leave and to return to their job after this.

What a surrogate does after the child is born does not affect their right to maternity leave.

You must apply for a parental order or adoption if you want to become the legal parent of the child.

Overview

Surrogacy is legal in the UK, but if you make a surrogacy agreement it cannot be enforced by the law.

The legal parents at birth

If you use a surrogate, they will be the child’s legal parent at birth.

Legal parenthood can be transferred by parental order or adoption after the child is born.

Surrogacy agreements

The intended parents and surrogate can record how they want the arrangement to work in a surrogacy agreement.

You cannot pay a surrogate in the UK, except for their reasonable expenses.

Donor’s rights

If you use donated sperm or eggs with your surrogate, read about the rights of your donor.

Read more about surrogacy and the legal process.

Become the child’s legal parent

Parental orders

You can apply for a parental order with a partner or on your own.

Apply with a partner

One of you must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must be one of the following:

married

civil partners

living as partners

You must also:

have the child living with you

reside permanently in either the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

You must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Apply as an individual

You must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must also:

have the child living with you

How to apply in England or Wales

You must fill in a ‘C51 application form for a parental order’ and take or send it to a family court.

You do not have to use your local family court, but you’ll need to explain why if you do not.

You’ll need to provide the child’s full birth certificate and will also be charged a court fee of £215.

The surrogate and anyone else who’s a parent of the child must agree to the parental order by filling in form A101A.

How to apply in Scotland or Northern Ireland

The process is different if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, contact the Court of Session or Sheriff Court.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Courts and Tribunals Service.

Adoption

Children born outside the UK

If the child is not a UK or EU national, they will need a visa to enter the UK during this process.

You can also read about returning to the UK with your child.

Pay and leave

You and your partner may be eligible for adoption pay and leave and paternity pay and leave if you use a surrogate.

If you’re not eligible for paid leave, you may be able to take parental leave or annual leave.

Surrogates

Every pregnant employee has the right to 52 weeks’ maternity leave and to return to their job after this.

What a surrogate does after the child is born does not affect their right to maternity leave.

One of you must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

Overview

Surrogacy is legal in the UK, but if you make a surrogacy agreement it cannot be enforced by the law.

The legal parents at birth

If you use a surrogate, they will be the child’s legal parent at birth.

Legal parenthood can be transferred by parental order or adoption after the child is born.

Surrogacy agreements

The intended parents and surrogate can record how they want the arrangement to work in a surrogacy agreement.

You cannot pay a surrogate in the UK, except for their reasonable expenses.

Donor’s rights

If you use donated sperm or eggs with your surrogate, read about the rights of your donor.

Read more about surrogacy and the legal process.

Become the child’s legal parent

You must apply for a parental order or adoption if you want to become the legal parent of the child.

Parental orders

You can apply for a parental order with a partner or on your own.

Apply with a partner

You must be one of the following:

married

civil partners

living as partners

You must also:

have the child living with you

reside permanently in either the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

You must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Apply as an individual

You must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must also:

have the child living with you

How to apply in England or Wales

You must fill in a ‘C51 application form for a parental order’ and take or send it to a family court.

You do not have to use your local family court, but you’ll need to explain why if you do not.

You’ll need to provide the child’s full birth certificate and will also be charged a court fee of £215.

The surrogate and anyone else who’s a parent of the child must agree to the parental order by filling in form A101A.

How to apply in Scotland or Northern Ireland

The process is different if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, contact the Court of Session or Sheriff Court.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Courts and Tribunals Service.

Adoption

Children born outside the UK

If the child is not a UK or EU national, they will need a visa to enter the UK during this process.

You can also read about returning to the UK with your child.

Pay and leave

You and your partner may be eligible for adoption pay and leave and paternity pay and leave if you use a surrogate.

If you’re not eligible for paid leave, you may be able to take parental leave or annual leave.

Surrogates

Every pregnant employee has the right to 52 weeks’ maternity leave and to return to their job after this.

What a surrogate does after the child is born does not affect their right to maternity leave.

You must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Overview

Surrogacy is legal in the UK, but if you make a surrogacy agreement it cannot be enforced by the law.

The legal parents at birth

If you use a surrogate, they will be the child’s legal parent at birth.

Legal parenthood can be transferred by parental order or adoption after the child is born.

Surrogacy agreements

The intended parents and surrogate can record how they want the arrangement to work in a surrogacy agreement.

You cannot pay a surrogate in the UK, except for their reasonable expenses.

Donor’s rights

If you use donated sperm or eggs with your surrogate, read about the rights of your donor.

Read more about surrogacy and the legal process.

Become the child’s legal parent

You must apply for a parental order or adoption if you want to become the legal parent of the child.

Parental orders

You can apply for a parental order with a partner or on your own.

Apply with a partner

One of you must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must be one of the following:

married

civil partners

living as partners

You must also:

have the child living with you

reside permanently in either the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

Apply as an individual

You must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must also:

have the child living with you

How to apply in England or Wales

You must fill in a ‘C51 application form for a parental order’ and take or send it to a family court.

You do not have to use your local family court, but you’ll need to explain why if you do not.

You’ll need to provide the child’s full birth certificate and will also be charged a court fee of £215.

The surrogate and anyone else who’s a parent of the child must agree to the parental order by filling in form A101A.

How to apply in Scotland or Northern Ireland

The process is different if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, contact the Court of Session or Sheriff Court.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Courts and Tribunals Service.

Adoption

Children born outside the UK

If the child is not a UK or EU national, they will need a visa to enter the UK during this process.

You can also read about returning to the UK with your child.

Pay and leave

You and your partner may be eligible for adoption pay and leave and paternity pay and leave if you use a surrogate.

If you’re not eligible for paid leave, you may be able to take parental leave or annual leave.

Surrogates

Every pregnant employee has the right to 52 weeks’ maternity leave and to return to their job after this.

What a surrogate does after the child is born does not affect their right to maternity leave.

Overview

Surrogacy is legal in the UK, but if you make a surrogacy agreement it cannot be enforced by the law.

The legal parents at birth

If you use a surrogate, they will be the child’s legal parent at birth.

Legal parenthood can be transferred by parental order or adoption after the child is born.

Surrogacy agreements

The intended parents and surrogate can record how they want the arrangement to work in a surrogacy agreement.

You cannot pay a surrogate in the UK, except for their reasonable expenses.

Donor’s rights

If you use donated sperm or eggs with your surrogate, read about the rights of your donor.

Read more about surrogacy and the legal process.

Become the child’s legal parent

You must apply for a parental order or adoption if you want to become the legal parent of the child.

Parental orders

You can apply for a parental order with a partner or on your own.

Apply with a partner

One of you must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must be one of the following:

married

civil partners

living as partners

You must also:

have the child living with you

reside permanently in either the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

You must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Apply as an individual

You must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must also:

have the child living with you

How to apply in England or Wales

You must fill in a ‘C51 application form for a parental order’ and take or send it to a family court.

You do not have to use your local family court, but you’ll need to explain why if you do not.

You’ll need to provide the child’s full birth certificate and will also be charged a court fee of £215.

The surrogate and anyone else who’s a parent of the child must agree to the parental order by filling in form A101A.

How to apply in Scotland or Northern Ireland

The process is different if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, contact the Court of Session or Sheriff Court.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Courts and Tribunals Service.

Adoption

Children born outside the UK

If the child is not a UK or EU national, they will need a visa to enter the UK during this process.

You can also read about returning to the UK with your child.

Pay and leave

You and your partner may be eligible for adoption pay and leave and paternity pay and leave if you use a surrogate.

If you’re not eligible for paid leave, you may be able to take parental leave or annual leave.

Surrogates

Every pregnant employee has the right to 52 weeks’ maternity leave and to return to their job after this.

What a surrogate does after the child is born does not affect their right to maternity leave.

Overview

Surrogacy is legal in the UK, but if you make a surrogacy agreement it cannot be enforced by the law.

The legal parents at birth

If you use a surrogate, they will be the child’s legal parent at birth.

Legal parenthood can be transferred by parental order or adoption after the child is born.

Surrogacy agreements

The intended parents and surrogate can record how they want the arrangement to work in a surrogacy agreement.

You cannot pay a surrogate in the UK, except for their reasonable expenses.

Donor’s rights

If you use donated sperm or eggs with your surrogate, read about the rights of your donor.

Read more about surrogacy and the legal process.

Become the child’s legal parent

You must apply for a parental order or adoption if you want to become the legal parent of the child.

Parental orders

You can apply for a parental order with a partner or on your own.

Apply with a partner

One of you must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must be one of the following:

married

civil partners

living as partners

You must also:

have the child living with you

reside permanently in either the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

You must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Apply as an individual

You must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must also:

have the child living with you

How to apply in England or Wales

You must fill in a ‘C51 application form for a parental order’ and take or send it to a family court.

You do not have to use your local family court, but you’ll need to explain why if you do not.

You’ll need to provide the child’s full birth certificate and will also be charged a court fee of £215.

The surrogate and anyone else who’s a parent of the child must agree to the parental order by filling in form A101A.

How to apply in Scotland or Northern Ireland

The process is different if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, contact the Court of Session or Sheriff Court.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Courts and Tribunals Service.

Adoption

Children born outside the UK

If the child is not a UK or EU national, they will need a visa to enter the UK during this process.

You can also read about returning to the UK with your child.

Pay and leave

You and your partner may be eligible for adoption pay and leave and paternity pay and leave if you use a surrogate.

If you’re not eligible for paid leave, you may be able to take parental leave or annual leave.

Surrogates

Every pregnant employee has the right to 52 weeks’ maternity leave and to return to their job after this.

What a surrogate does after the child is born does not affect their right to maternity leave.

Overview

Surrogacy is legal in the UK, but if you make a surrogacy agreement it cannot be enforced by the law.

The legal parents at birth

If you use a surrogate, they will be the child’s legal parent at birth.

Legal parenthood can be transferred by parental order or adoption after the child is born.

Surrogacy agreements

The intended parents and surrogate can record how they want the arrangement to work in a surrogacy agreement.

You cannot pay a surrogate in the UK, except for their reasonable expenses.

Donor’s rights

If you use donated sperm or eggs with your surrogate, read about the rights of your donor.

Read more about surrogacy and the legal process.

Become the child’s legal parent

You must apply for a parental order or adoption if you want to become the legal parent of the child.

Parental orders

You can apply for a parental order with a partner or on your own.

Apply with a partner

One of you must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must be one of the following:

married

civil partners

living as partners

You must also:

have the child living with you

reside permanently in either the UK, Channel Islands or Isle of Man

You must apply within 6 months of the child’s birth.

Apply as an individual

You must be genetically related to the child - in other words, be the egg or sperm donor.

You must also:

have the child living with you

How to apply in England or Wales

You must fill in a ‘C51 application form for a parental order’ and take or send it to a family court.

You do not have to use your local family court, but you’ll need to explain why if you do not.

You’ll need to provide the child’s full birth certificate and will also be charged a court fee of £215.

The surrogate and anyone else who’s a parent of the child must agree to the parental order by filling in form A101A.

How to apply in Scotland or Northern Ireland

The process is different if you live in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

In Scotland, contact the Court of Session or Sheriff Court.

In Northern Ireland, contact the Courts and Tribunals Service.

Adoption

Children born outside the UK

If the child is not a UK or EU national, they will need a visa to enter the UK during this process.

You can also read about returning to the UK with your child.

Pay and leave

You and your partner may be eligible for adoption pay and leave and paternity pay and leave if you use a surrogate.

If you’re not eligible for paid leave, you may be able to take parental leave or annual leave.

Surrogates

Every pregnant employee has the right to 52 weeks’ maternity leave and to return to their job after this.

What a surrogate does after the child is born does not affect their right to maternity leave.