UK Tier 2 Working Visa: Application Guidelines
The UK Tier 2 working visa is a great opportunity for those who want to work and settle in the United Kingdom. This visa category is designed for skilled workers outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who have been offered a job by a UK employer.
Before moving on to the application guidelines, let’s take a look at the different categories of the Tier 2 visa.
Categories of Tier 2 Visa
There are four categories of the UK Tier 2 visa, and they are as follows:
1. Tier 2 (General) Visa: The Tier 2 (General) visa is for skilled workers who have been offered a job in the UK. To apply for this visa, the applicant must have a job offer from a UK employer, have a valid certificate of sponsorship, and pass a points-based assessment.
2. Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) Visa: The Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) visa is for employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to the UK for work. To apply for this visa, the applicant must have worked for the company for at least 12 months, have a valid certificate of sponsorship, and pass a points-based assessment.
3. Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) Visa: The Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) visa is for those who have been offered a job as a minister of religion, missionary, or member of a religious order in the UK. To apply for this visa, the applicant must have a job offer from a UK religious organization, have a valid certificate of sponsorship, and pass a points-based assessment.
4. Tier 2 (Sportsperson) Visa: The Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visa is for elite athletes and coaches who have been endorsed by a UK sporting body. To apply for this visa, the applicant must be endorsed by a UK sporting body, have a valid certificate of sponsorship, and pass a points-based assessment.
Now that you understand the different categories of the UK Tier 2 visa, let’s take a look at the application guidelines.
Application Guidelines
1. Check if You Qualify: Before applying for the UK Tier 2 visa, it’s important to make sure that you meet the eligibility criteria. You must have a job offer from a UK employer, a valid certificate of sponsorship, and pass a points-based assessment.
2. Apply Online: You can apply for the UK Tier 2 visa online using the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website. You will need to create an account, fill out the application form, and submit it along with supporting documents.
3. Pay the Application Fee: The application fee for the UK Tier 2 visa varies depending on the category and duration of the visa. Make sure to check the current fees before submitting your application.
4. Provide Biometrics: As part of the UK Tier 2 visa application process, you will need to provide biometrics, including fingerprints and a photograph.
5. Submit Supporting Documents: Along with your application form, you will need to submit supporting documents such as your passport, certificate of sponsorship, and proof of English language proficiency.
6. Wait for a Decision: After submitting your application, you will need to wait for a decision. The processing time for the UK Tier 2 visa can vary depending on the category and location of the visa application center.
7. Collect Your Visa: If your visa application is successful, you will be issued a UK visa. You can collect your visa from the visa application center or have it delivered to your home or office address.
FAQs
1. What is the difference between Tier 2 (General) and Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) visas?
The Tier 2 (General) visa is for skilled workers who have been offered a job in the UK, while the Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) visa is for employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to the UK for work.
2. Can I switch to a Tier 2 visa from within the UK?
Yes, it is possible to switch to a Tier 2 visa from within the UK if you are already in the country on a different visa.
3. How long does the Tier 2 visa last?
The length of the Tier 2 visa depends on the category and duration of the visa. Generally, the visa can last from one year to five years.
4. Do I need to have a job offer before applying for the Tier 2 visa?
Yes, you must have a job offer from a UK employer before applying for the Tier 2 visa.
The UK Tier 2 working visa provides an excellent opportunity for skilled workers to work and settle in the United Kingdom. By following these application guidelines and understanding the different categories of the visa, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application.