Lisa is an elite pianist from China. Has been invited by her sponsor melody  Orchestra  to perform in England for musical concerts and have hands on job training. Can she apply for creative and sports visa?

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

Temporary Worker - Creative and Sporting visa (T5)

Overview

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

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)

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

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

Overview

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

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:

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

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

you meet the other eligibility requirements

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

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:

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

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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

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

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:

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

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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

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

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

You’ll also need all of the following:

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

a certificate of sponsorship reference number

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

certificate of sponsorship reference number

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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

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.

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:

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

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)

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.

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)

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

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