What is the UK International Sportsperson Visa?
The UK International Sportsperson Visa is designed for sponsored international high-level sportspeople and coaches working to advance their sport in the UK at the elite level. This visa has replaced the Tier 2 Sportsperson visa and Tier 5 Creative and Sporting visas.
Eligibility for a UK International Sportsperson Visa requires endorsement as an elite sportsperson or qualified coach at the highest international level by the governing body of your individual sport.
Typically granted for up to 3 years initially, UK International Sportsperson visas can be extended as long as eligibility is maintained. After 5 years as a visa holder, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).
As a holder of the International Sportsperson UK visa, you can live, work for your sponsor (including a second job if eligible), work as a sports broadcaster, study, and travel freely to and from the UK. Additionally, you can bring your dependant family members (i.e., partner and children) to join you in the UK.
Foreign nationals not meeting the criteria for the International Sportsperson visa may consider applying for a Skilled Worker visa
Requirements for UK Sports Visa
To ensure a successful application for the UK Sports Visa, applicants must fulfil the following criteria:
- International Endorsement:
- Obtain international recognition as a player or coach at the highest echelons of their sport from an approved governing body.
- Provide a letter of endorsement confirming the applicant’s genuine status as a globally recognised player or coach, emphasising their significant contribution to the sport’s development at the highest levels.
- Include a unique endorsement number starting with an abbreviated form of the governing body (e.g., RUGU for rugby union).
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) UK:
- Possess a valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued by an employer with a sponsor licence.
- Financial Requirements:
- Demonstrate financial stability by showing savings of at least £1,270 in the applicant’s bank account for a minimum of 28 days.
- This financial requirement does not apply if the applicant has been in the UK for 12 months or more. Alternatively, the UK employer can support the applicant by indicating on the Certificate of Sponsorship, ‘sponsor certifies maintenance.’
- Travel History:
- Provide a comprehensive travel history covering the last 5 years.
- English Language Proficiency:
- Fulfil the English language requirement if planning to stay in the UK on an International Sportsperson visa for over 1 year.
- Meet this requirement by either holding an approved English language qualification at CEFR level A1 in speaking and listening or higher, or by having a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree taught in English.
- Applicants from eligible English-speaking countries will automatically meet this requirement.
- Tuberculosis Test:
- If from a listed country, submit a clear tuberculosis test result
Required documents for the UK International Sportsperson Visa
To ensure a smooth application process for the UK International Sportsperson Visa, it is crucial to have all the necessary documents at your disposal. Below is a comprehensive list of the required documents for a UK sports visa application:
- Letter of Endorsement:
- Obtain a letter of endorsement from the governing body of your sport, confirming your international recognition as a player or coach at the highest level and your significant contribution to the sport’s development.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Reference Number:
- Provide the reference number from your Certificate of Sponsorship, which will be issued by your employer.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency:
- Demonstrate your proficiency in English through a recognised language qualification, such as CEFR level A1 in speaking and listening or higher. Alternatively, provide evidence of having completed a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree taught in English.
- Financial Documentation:
- Submit bank statements indicating your financial capacity to support yourself in the UK, unless your Certificate of Sponsorship specifies that your employer will cover your expenses.
- Identity and Nationality Documentation:
- Present a valid passport or an alternative document verifying your identity and nationality. Ensure there is a blank page in your passport for visa issuance.
- Travel History Records:
- Include expired passports or travel documents to provide a comprehensive record of your travel history over the past years.
- Tuberculosis Test Results:
- If you originate from a country on the listed countries’ tuberculosis test requirement, include clear and valid tuberculosis test results.
- If you originate from a country on the listed countries’ tuberculosis test requirement, include clear and valid tuberculosis test results.
How to Apply for a UK International Sportsperson Visa
Embarking on the application process for a UK International Sportsperson Visa involves several essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful submission:
- Online Application Form:
- Complete the comprehensive online application form, providing accurate and detailed information regarding your personal and professional background.
- Application Fee Payment:
- Pay the specified application fee, which is a crucial aspect of the process. Refer to the official guidelines or relevant documentation for the accurate fee amount and payment methods.
- Document Submission:
- Upload all required documents to support your application. These documents may include:
- Letter of endorsement from your sport’s governing body
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number from your employer
- Proof of English language proficiency
- Financial documents demonstrating your ability to support yourself in the UK
- Valid passport or identity document with a blank page for visa issuance
- Records of expired passports or travel documents showcasing your travel history
- Tuberculosis test results if applicable
- Upload all required documents to support your application. These documents may include:
- Biometric Appointment:
- Schedule and attend a biometric appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC). During this appointment, your fingerprints will be scanned, and a photograph will be taken.
- Processing Time:
- The standard processing time for International Sportsperson visa applications is approximately three weeks. If you require expedited processing, there may be an option to pay an additional fee for a faster turnaround.
UK International Sportsperson Visa Fees
Applicants for the International Sportsperson Visa are obligated to cover the following costs:
- Application Fee:
- £298 for stays of fewer than 12 months
- £719 for stays exceeding 12 months
- Healthcare Surcharge:
- £624 annually for adults, providing access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS)
- £470 annually for children accessing NHS services
These fees are essential components of the visa application process. Ensure you are aware of the specific duration of your stay and associated fees, including the healthcare surcharge for comprehensive health coverage during your time in the UK.
International Sportsperson Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Individuals who have held an international sportsperson visa and resided in the UK for more than 5 years may qualify for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), commonly known as settlement in the UK. The ILR requirements for those transitioning from the International Sportsperson visa stipulate that applicants must:
- Minimum 5 Years Holding the International Sportsperson Visa:
- Demonstrate a consistent period of at least 5 years of holding the international sportsperson visa.
- Lawful Residency in the UK:
- Provide evidence of having resided in the UK lawfully throughout the entire 5-year period.
- Continuous Residence Requirement:
- Satisfy the continuous residence requirement, ensuring that they have not been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any consecutive year.
- English Language Proficiency:
- Fulfill the English language requirement, showcasing proficiency through an approved language qualification.
- Life in the UK Test:
- Successfully pass the Life in the UK test, which assesses the applicant’s knowledge of British culture, history, and customs.
Individuals granted ILR enjoy the privilege of permanent residence in the UK without being subject to immigration control. They retain the freedom to work, study, and travel without constraints as settled individuals. Following an additional 12 months, individuals with ILR have the option to apply for British citizenship.
These detailed requirements provide a comprehensive understanding of the criteria for transitioning from the International Sportsperson visa to achieving a more permanent status in the UK.
Extension of the International Sportsperson Visa
As a holder of the International Sportsperson UK Visa, you have the option to apply for an extension, allowing you to extend your stay for an additional 3 years, provided you continue to meet the same eligibility criteria that were met when your initial leave under this category was granted. It is crucial to initiate the international sportsperson visa renewal process before the expiration of your current visa.
For a successful extension application, you must secure a renewal of your endorsement and obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer.
The cost for extension applications is £719 per person, and the processing time can take up to 8 weeks. As long as you submit your extension application before the expiry of your current visa, you can maintain your residence and employment in the UK while awaiting a decision from the Home Office. Concurrently, your partner and children have the opportunity to apply for an extension of their visas.
International Sportsperson Visa Dependants
Upon the successful approval of your International Sportsperson visa application, you have the valuable opportunity to bring your dependant family members with you to the UK. Specifically:
- Eligibility for Partner Inclusion:
- Partners can be included if you are married, in a civil partnership, or if you have been in a relationship for a minimum of 2 years.
- Dependency Criteria for Children Aged 16 or Older:
- For children aged 16 or older to be considered dependants, you must demonstrate that they:
- Reside with you, unless living away for educational purposes.
- Are financially reliant on you.
- Are not married.
- For children aged 16 or older to be considered dependants, you must demonstrate that they:
- Financial Requirements for Dependents:
- When applying for your dependants, it is crucial to show that you have sufficient funds to meet their needs, including:
- £285 for your partner.
- £315 for your first child.
- £200 for each additional child.
- When applying for your dependants, it is crucial to show that you have sufficient funds to meet their needs, including:
- Inclusion of Visa Application Number:
- It is important to include your visa application number (i.e., Global Web Form or Unique Application Number) on the visa applications for your dependants.
By ensuring you meet these specific criteria and provide detailed documentation, you enhance the likelihood of a comprehensive and successful application process for your dependant family members accompanying you to the UK under the International Sportsperson
International Sportsperson Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
Individuals who have held an international sportsperson visa and resided in the UK for more than 5 years may qualify for indefinite leave to remain (ILR), commonly known as settlement in the UK. The ILR requirements for those transitioning from the International Sportsperson visa stipulate that applicants must:
- Minimum 5 Years Holding the International Sportsperson Visa:
- Demonstrate a consistent period of at least 5 years of holding the international sportsperson visa.
- Lawful Residency in the UK:
- Provide evidence of having resided in the UK lawfully throughout the entire 5-year period.
- Continuous Residence Requirement:
- Satisfy the continuous residence requirement, ensuring that they have not been absent from the UK for more than 180 days in any consecutive year.
- English Language Proficiency:
- Fulfil the English language requirement, showcasing proficiency through an approved language qualification.
- Life in the UK Test:
- Successfully pass the Life in the UK test, which assesses the applicant’s knowledge of British culture, history, and customs.
Individuals granted ILR enjoy the privilege of permanent residence in the UK without being subject to immigration control. They retain the freedom to work, study, and travel without constraints as settled individuals. Following an additional 12 months, individuals with ILR have the option to apply for British citizenship.
These detailed requirements provide a comprehensive understanding of the criteria for transitioning from the International Sportsperson visa to achieving a more permanent status in the UK.
Extension of the International Sportsperson Visa
As a holder of the International Sportsperson UK Visa, you have the option to apply for an extension, allowing you to extend your stay for an additional 3 years, provided you continue to meet the same eligibility criteria that were met when your initial leave under this category was granted. It is crucial to initiate the international sportsperson visa renewal process before the expiration of your current visa.
For a successful extension application, you must secure a renewal of your endorsement and obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer.
The cost for extension applications is £719 per person, and the processing time can take up to 8 weeks. As long as you submit your extension application before the expiry of your current visa, you can maintain your residence and employment in the UK while awaiting a decision from the Home Office. Concurrently, your partner and children have the opportunity to apply for an extension of their visas.
International Sportsperson Visa Dependants
Upon the successful approval of your International Sportsperson visa application, you have the valuable opportunity to bring your dependant family members with you to the UK. Specifically:
- Eligibility for Partner Inclusion:
- Partners can be included if you are married, in a civil partnership, or if you have been in a relationship for a minimum of 2 years.
- Dependency Criteria for Children Aged 16 or Older:
- For children aged 16 or older to be considered dependants, you must demonstrate that they:
- Reside with you, unless living away for educational purposes.
- Are financially reliant on you.
- Are not married.
- For children aged 16 or older to be considered dependants, you must demonstrate that they:
- Financial Requirements for Dependents:
- When applying for your dependants, it is crucial to show that you have sufficient funds to meet their needs, including:
- £285 for your partner.
- £315 for your first child.
- £200 for each additional child.
- When applying for your dependants, it is crucial to show that you have sufficient funds to meet their needs, including:
- Inclusion of Visa Application Number:
- It is important to include your visa application number (i.e., Global Web Form or Unique Application Number) on the visa applications for your dependants.
By ensuring you meet these specific criteria and provide detailed documentation, you enhance the likelihood of a comprehensive and successful application process for your dependant family members accompanying you to the UK under the International Sportsperson Visa.
