The comprehensive guide to obtaining a temporary work visa in the United Kingdom 2024

Are you a foreign worker looking to settle temporarily in the UK in 2024 and work legally? You are in the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the entire process of obtaining a UK temporary work visa. Whether you want to work as a creative worker, seasonal worker, charity worker, international convention worker, or participate in a government-approved exchange, we've got you covered. Read on to discover the step-by-step process, eligibility requirements, required documents, fees, and more.

Overview of UK temporary work visa categories

When it comes to working temporarily in the UK, there are five types of UK temporary worker visas to choose from

Creative Worker Visa: Designed for individuals working in creative sectors such as arts, entertainment and sports.

Seasonal Worker Visa: Targets individuals seeking work in the agriculture, horticulture, and food processing sectors for a specific period.

Charity Visa: For those who plan to do unpaid charitable work in the UK.

International Convention Worker Visa: Designated for individuals working under international agreements, including government employees and diplomatic missions.

Government Approved Exchange Visa: Suitable for participants in government approved exchange schemes, promoting cultural and educational exchange.

Eligibility requirements for a UK temporary work visa

Before applying for a UK temporary work visa, you must meet the following eligibility requirements

Age Requirements: You must be over 18 years old

Financial requirements: You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account, available for 28 days within 31 days of submitting your visa application. However, this requirement is waived if you are in the UK on a visa valid for 12 months or if your employer will support you financially with a minimum of £1,270 for the first month.

Sponsorship Certificate Cos: You must have a valid sponsorship certificate from your employer. It contains detailed information about the job you will be doing in the UK under the specific temporary worker visa category. The COS reference number will be used during your visa application and can only be used once.

Documents required to obtain a temporary work visa in the United Kingdom

To ensure a successful application for a UK temporary worker visa, you must prepare the following documents

Valid Passport: You need a valid passport with a blank page to get the visa.

Sponsorship Certificate Reference Number: Provided by the UK employer.

Financial proof: Bank statements or supporting documents to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself in the UK.

Certification (if applicable): If your job involves participating in sensitive research topics, you may need a valid certification.

Certified translation: If your documents are not in Welsh or English, you must provide certified translations.

How to apply for a temporary worker visa in the UK

To successfully apply for a UK temporary worker visa, follow the steps below

Obtaining a COS number: Before starting your application, obtain a number from your licensed UK employer. Without a COS, you cannot continue with the application process.

Complete the online application: Visit the Home Office (UK Government) Visas and Immigration website and complete the online application form for the relevant temporary worker visa category. Make sure to provide all information in English.

Upload Supporting Documents: Scan, photocopy and upload the required documents while submitting the online application. .

Pay the required fees: The application fee (£259) and additional healthcare fee (£624 per annum) must be paid during the online application.

Attend an appointment at a visa application centre: Book an appointment at your nearest UK visa application center to provide your biometric information and proof of identity.

Temporary work visa fees in the UK

To apply for a UK temporary work visa, the following fees apply

Application fee: £259

Healthcare surcharge: £624 per year

Processing time for a UK temporary worker visa

The UK temporary work visa processing time depends on your location

If you are applying from outside the UK, the average processing time is three weeks.

If applying from within the UK, the average processing time is eight weeks.

Please note that processing times may vary based on the workload at the visa application centers and whether additional documents are required.

Duration and extension of temporary worker visa in the UK

The duration of a temporary work visa in the UK depends on the specific category

Depending on the category, you can stay in the UK for anywhere from six months to two years.

With the exception of the Seasonal Worker visa, all other UK temporary worker visa categories can be extended. The extension period will vary depending on the visa selected.

Conditions for a temporary work visa in the United Kingdom

When obtaining a temporary work visa in the UK, there are specific conditions that you must know

Study while in the UK.

Work for your employer as stated on your certificate of service.

Bringing eligible dependents with certain visa categories.

Do a second job for up to 20 hours per week, except on a seasonal worker visa.

Bringing family on a temporary work visa in the UK

Dependent eligibility varies depending on visa category

Dependents can accompany individuals who hold a government-approved Creative Work Visa, Charity Visa, or Exchange Visa.

Dependents cannot join individuals who hold a seasonal worker visa or a work visa under an international agreement.

Obtaining (indefinite leave to remain) on a temporary work visa in the United Kingdom

The UK temporary work visa does not provide a route to indefinite leave to remain. If you want to settle in the UK permanently, you should explore other UK work visa options.

Congratulations! You are now equipped with a comprehensive guide to obtaining a temporary work visa in the UK in 2024. By understanding the eligibility requirements, preparing the necessary documents, and following the application process, you can obtain your permission to work temporarily in the United Kingdom. Remember your visa conditions and duration, and explore other visa options if you want to settle permanently in the UK. Good luck on your journey!