UK International Agreement Visa Guide & Process

The UK’s International Agreement visa is a temporary route for individuals contracted for work covered by international law or treaty.

It replaced the UK’s previous Temporary Worker – International Agreement Worker visa (T5) for professionals employed under agreements between the UK and other countries or international organisations, such as diplomatic staff, employees of international organisations like the UN, or those working on projects governed by international treaties.

Importantly, the worker must be sponsored by an authorised employer to be eligible for this visa.

In this guide to the International Agreement visa, we explain what this temporary work visa allows, who can apply, and how to apply.

 

Section A: What is the International Agreement visa (Temporary Work)?

 

The International Agreement visa is a temporary work visa for overseas nationals who will be contracted to provide a service covered by international law or treaty while they are in the UK. This includes working for either an overseas government or recognised international organisation or as a private servant within a diplomatic household.

 

1. What is an International Agreement Worker?

 

An International Agreement worker is an overseas national contracted to do work covered by international law or treaty in the UK, including working for an overseas government or recognised international organisation or as a private servant within a diplomatic household.

 

2. What does the International Agreement Visa Allow?

 

With an International Agreement visa, you can come to the UK to undertake the job specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

You can also take up secondary employment, provided it is only up to 20 hours per week and cannot be instead of, or a replacement for, the sponsored job role. It must also be either in the same sector as the main job or on the Skilled Worker Immigration Salary List.

Once in the UK, you can also study alongside your sponsored job role, provided this does not interfere with the job that you are being sponsored to do. You may also need to obtain an ATAS certificate for certain types of courses.

The length of time that you can stay in the UK will depend on the type of work you will be doing. An overseas government or international organisation worker will be permitted to stay in the UK for either up to 2 years or the time given on their Certificate of Sponsorship, plus up to 14 days, whichever is shorter.

However, a private servant in a diplomatic household can stay for up to 5 years, although they can only apply for up to 2 years at a time or for the time given on their sponsorship certificate, plus up to 14 days.

You will be permitted to enter the UK on the date your visa starts.

 

3. Can you bring dependants under the International Agreement route?

 

Under the International Agreement visa, you can bring your immediate family with you to the UK, including your partner and children under 18, provided they meet the relevant immigration requirements for dependants.

A partner will include any unmarried partner, provided they have been living together in a relationship akin to marriage for at least 2 years when they apply.

Dependent children, if they are aged 16 or over, must be living with you unless they are in full-time education at either boarding school, college or university. They must also not be married, in a civil partnership or have any children of their own.

Dependent visas are typically issued for the same period as the primary visa holder’s.

Dependants are allowed to undertake any type of work while they are in the UK, including self-employment and voluntary work, except as a professional sportsperson or sports coach. They will also be able to pursue any studies.

 

4. International Agreement Visa or Service Supplier Visa?

 

The Service Supplier visa is a part of the UK’s Global Business Mobility (GBM) route, introduced to facilitate overseas businesses deploying workers to the UK for temporary assignments. It is designed for those providing services under an international trade agreement between their country and the UK. This visa applies to both employees of overseas companies and self-employed professionals, allowing them to deliver services that are contractually bound with a UK-based company.

The Service Supplier visa replaced the provisions for contractual service suppliers and independent professionals previously covered under the Temporary Work – International Agreement route. As such, businesses engaging in international contracts will need to be aware of the eligible trade agreements for this visa.

This means workers who are being contracted to provide services to a UK company would not be eligible for the International Agreement visa. To fulfil UK-based contractual service supplier or independent professional commitments, overseas nationals should instead apply for a Service Supplier visa under the Global Business Mobility routes.

 

Section B: Eligibility Criteria for the UK International Agreement Visa

 

The eligibility criteria for the UK International Agreement Visa are specific and detailed, reflecting the unique nature of this visa category. It’s essential to meet all the required criteria to ensure a successful application.

 

1. Age Requirement

 

You have to be aged 18 or over to apply for this visa.

 

2. Sponsorship Requirement

 

Applicants must have been assigned a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed sponsor for this category of worker.

A CoS is a digital certification that the individual has a qualifying offer of a job role to undertake work in the UK that is covered by international law or treaty.

This holds information about the applicant and their job and will prove to the UK Home Office that the applicant is being sponsored in an eligible job role for which they are being paid at least the National Minimum Wage. The sponsorship certificate will be valid for a period of 3 months from the date that it is assigned to the prospective International Agreement worker.

 

3. Work Requirement

 

The applicant must be employed under an international agreement or treaty between the UK and another country or organisation, and the work that the International Agreement visa applicant will be doing in the UK must relate to the work of the sponsoring organisation.

Their work must qualify as one of the following:

 

a. As an employee of an overseas government or a recognised international organisation, or as an employee in the household of someone working for a recognised organisation, or

b. As a private servant in a diplomatic household.

 

This could include diplomatic workers, i.e. individuals employed by a foreign government in the UK, such as embassy staff or consular officers; or employees of international organisations – staff working for recognised international organisations like the United Nations, World Bank, or NATO; private servants in diplomatic households: domestic workers employed by diplomatic households, provided they meet specific conditions.

 

4. Financial Requirement

 

In addition to a valid sponsorship number, the applicant must also have enough money to support themselves on their arrival in the UK. Under this financial requirement, the applicant must be able to show proof of funds of £1,270 and that they have held this sum for at least 28 days in a row, with day 28 falling within 31 days of applying for this visa.

If the applicant’s partner or dependent children are also applying at the same time as the International Agreement worker, the following additional funds will be required:

 

a. £285 for the applicant’s partner

b. £315 for the first dependent child

c. £200 for each further child

 

The principal applicant and any dependants applying with them will not need to show funds if the sponsoring employer is prepared to certify maintenance for the whole family. In this scenario, the employer would need to certify that they will cover the applicant’s costs during their first month’s stay in the UK, up to the sum of £1,270, together with the extra costs for any partner and children accompanying the applicant.

 

5. Employer Requirements

 

To assign Certificates of Sponsorship, the prospective employer must hold a valid sponsor licence for the International Agreement route. The sponsor will only be eligible for a licence if they are recognised by the UK government as either:

 

a. an overseas government organisation, such as a diplomatic or consular mission, of a country or territory recognised by the UK or

b. a recognised international organisation, i.e.; one that is established by an international treaty signed by the UK and included on the exempt organisations list on the Home Office website.

 

This is a list of international organisations recognised by the UK, some of whose senior employees or officials may be exempt from immigration control, where those employees or officials who are not exempt can be sponsored on the International Agreement route.

 

Section C: Examples and Case Studies

 

The following examples illustrate the diverse range of applicants eligible for the International Agreement Visa, each fulfilling specific criteria tied to international agreements.

 

Example 1: Diplomatic Worker

A senior official from the German Embassy in London is transferred to the UK to take up a position as a cultural attaché.

This individual qualifies for the International Agreement Visa because they are employed by a foreign government under an international agreement, specifically the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The German Embassy, as a recognised sponsor, issues a Certificate of Sponsorship, and the applicant does not need to meet an English language requirement due to their diplomatic status.

 

Example 2: Employee of an International Organisation

An employee of the United Nations is assigned to work in the UK office to oversee a project related to international development.

The employee is eligible for the visa as their role is part of an international agreement between the UN and the UK government. The UN provides a Certificate of Sponsorship, and the employee is granted a visa for the duration of their project, which is two years.

 

Example 3: Private Servant in a Diplomatic Household

A personal assistant to the ambassador of Japan, who has been working in the ambassador’s residence in Japan, is now required to continue their duties in the UK.

The assistant qualifies for the International Agreement Visa under the category of private servants in diplomatic households. The ambassador must provide a CoS, and the assistant must meet specific conditions, such as proving they have been employed for at least 12 months prior to the visa application. The visa duration will match the ambassador’s posting in the UK.

 

Section D: UK International Agreement Visa Application Process

 

Applications for the International Agreement visa are made online. Once an applicant has applied online, paid the relevant fee, proved their identity and provided their documents, they will usually get a decision on their visa within 3 weeks.

You can apply up to 3 months before the day you are due to start work in the UK. This date will be listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

 

1. Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply

 

The application process comprises the following key steps:

 

Table: Application Process

Step Number	Description	Key Actions	Estimated Time
1	Check Eligibility	Review eligibility criteria and ensure you meet all requirements	1-2 days
2	Gather Required Documents	Collect all necessary documentation based on visa requirements	1-2 weeks
3	Complete the Online Application	Fill out the application form on the UK government visa website	1-2 hours
4	Pay the Visa Fee	Submit payment for the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	1 hour
5	Schedule Biometrics Appointment	Book and attend your biometric information appointment	1-2 weeks (appointment availability)
6	Submit Your Application	Submit your application along with all required documents	Immediate (after biometrics)
7	Wait for a Decision	Processing of the visa application by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)	3 weeks (outside UK), 8 weeks (inside UK)
8	Receive Your Visa	If approved, receive your visa vignette or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)	Varies based on delivery location

 

Step 1: Confirm Eligibility

Before beginning your application, ensure you meet all the eligibility criteria for the International Agreement Visa. This includes having a valid job offer under an international agreement and a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a recognised UK sponsor.

 

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary supporting documents, which, as a minimum, will include:

 

a. Your valid passport or travel document.

b. Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.

c. Evidence of your employment under an international agreement (such as a diplomatic letter or contract with an international organisation).

d. Additional documents specific to your category (e.g., proof of employment for private servants in diplomatic households).

 

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Visit the official UK government visa application website. Create an account and select the International Agreement Visa category.

Fill out the online form with your personal details, employment information, and sponsorship details.

 

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

The International Agreement visa application fee for each person applying is £298.

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

The visa application fee must be paid before your application can be
processed.

 

Step 5: Verify Your Identity

As part of the application, you will need to prove your identity using a valid passport or other travel document.

How you do this will depend on where you are from and what type of passport you have. You may be able to use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app to scan your identity document. Alternatively, you may be required to attend a visa application centre (VAC) to have your fingerprints and photograph taken. You will be advised when making your application which option is available to you.

 

Step 6: Submit Supporting Documents

You will need to upload scanned copies of your supporting documents through the online portal or submit them in person at your biometric appointment.

 

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application and providing all required documents, you will need to wait for the UK Visas and Immigration department to process your application. The processing time can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the specific category under which you are applying.

 

Step 8: Receive Your Visa Decision

Your application details on the online system will be updated with the application outcome, and you will be notified of the decision by email.

If your application is approved, you will be given instructions about how to obtain your visa, such as setting up a UKVI account to access your eVisa as digital proof of your immigration status.

If your application is refused, the notification will include details on why and whether you can appeal the decision.

 

2. Required Documents for the UK International Agreement Visa

 

The supporting documents should provide the Home Office with proof of your eligibility and allow the caseworker to process your application efficiently.

As a minimum, you should expect to provide the following:

 

Table: Required Documents

 

Document Type	Description	Mandatory/Optional	Notes
Passport	Valid passport with at least one blank page	Mandatory	Must be valid for the entire duration of your stay
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	Reference number from your UK sponsor	Mandatory	Ensure all details match your application
Proof of Employment	Employment contract or letter detailing job role and salary	Mandatory	Should be on official company letterhead
Maintenance Funds	Bank statements or sponsor certification of maintenance	Mandatory (unless exempt)	Must show sufficient funds for at least 28 consecutive days
Biometric Information	Fingerprints and photograph	Mandatory	Provided at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or UKVCAS
TB Test Certificate	Medical certificate proving you are free from tuberculosis	Conditional	Required if applying from certain countries
Healthcare Surcharge Payment Receipt	Proof of payment for the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	Mandatory (unless exempt)	Retain a copy of the payment receipt
Qualifications and Experience Proof	Degrees, certificates, and relevant work experience records	Optional (role-specific)	Required for specific job roles under the visa
Diplomatic Note/Letter	Official letter from a foreign government confirming diplomatic status	Conditional	Only required for diplomatic roles

 

Depending on your circumstances and the complexity of your application, additional documents may be needed. To ensure your submission is comprehensive in evidencing your eligibility, take professional advice on what to include for your documentation. This will help to avoid requests for further information, which can result in processing delays or a potential visa refusal for failing to prove your eligibility.

 

3. Tips for Preparing and Submitting Documents

 

Issues with supporting documents are a common ground for processing delays and visa refusal. Follow these tips to give your application the best chance of success:

 

a. Ensure Document Accuracy

Double-check all documents for accuracy, ensuring that names, dates, and other details match the information provided in your application form. Discrepancies can lead to delays or refusals.

 

b. Provide Certified Translations

If any of your documents are not in English or Welsh, you must provide a certified translation. Ensure that the translation includes the translator’s credentials and a statement that it is an accurate translation of the original document.

 

c. Organise Documents Clearly

Organise your documents in the order requested by UKVI. This makes it easier for the caseworker to review your application and reduces the risk of missing important information.

 

d. Use Clear and Legible Copies

When submitting copies of documents, ensure they are clear and legible. Blurred or incomplete copies may result in your application being delayed or rejected.

 

e. Submit Originals Where Required

Some documents, like your passport or official letters, may need to be submitted in original form. Check the specific requirements to avoid unnecessary delays.

 

f. Keep Copies of All Submissions

Always keep a complete set of copies of all documents you submit. This is essential for your records and can be helpful if any issues arise with your application.

 

g. Follow Submission Guidelines

Follow the specific submission guidelines provided by UKVI, such as uploading documents in the correct format.

 

h. Seek Professional Advice

If you are unsure about any aspect of your documentation, contact our UK visa experts to help ensure your documents meet all requirements.

 

i. Monitor Deadlines

Pay attention to any deadlines for document submission, particularly if additional documents are requested after your initial application.

 

4. UK International Agreement Visa Processing Times

 

The time it takes to receive a decision on your visa application can vary based on several factors, and knowing these can help you manage your expectations and avoid unnecessary delays.

 

a. Standard Processing Times

The average processing time for the UK International Agreement Visa generally ranges from 3 to 8 weeks from the date of submission.

Most applicants can expect a decision within 3 weeks (15 working days) if applying from outside the UK, or within 8 weeks if applying from within the UK for an extension or change of visa type.

If your application is complete, with all required documents submitted correctly, it is more likely to be processed within the standard time frame. Incomplete or inaccurate applications often result in delays, as the Home Office may request additional information or clarification.

Processing times can also vary depending on the time of year. Peak times, such as the summer months and around the Christmas period, can see higher volumes of applications, which may lead to longer processing times.

Applications involving complex cases, such as those with extensive travel histories, previous visa refusals, or unclear employment documentation, may take longer to process. Certain roles, especially those related to security-sensitive positions or diplomatic roles, may require more extensive background checks. If the Home Office needs to conduct additional checks, or if the Home Office requests additional information or documents during the application process, processing may be delayed. It’s also important to respond promptly to any such requests to avoid further delays.

The processing time may also vary depending on the country from which you are applying. Some visa application centres may have faster processing capabilities than others, depending on local demand and resources.

 

b. Priority Processing Times

For an additional fee, applicants can opt for the priority service, which aims to provide a decision within 5 working days from the date of biometric submission, for an additional £500 per application.

In some locations, a super priority service is available, offering a decision within 24 hours from the date of biometric submission for an additional £1,000 per application.

You will be advised when you make your application if priority processing is available to you.

 

4. Fees and Costs for the UK International Agreement Visa

 

It costs £298 to apply for an International Agreement visa, whether you are applying from the UK or overseas.

Applicants also need to pay the immigration health surcharge per year of stay for each person applying.

These costs are in addition to the funds required to meet the financial requirement.

 

Table: Processing Time & Fees

Application Type	Processing Time	Application Fee	Additional Costs
Standard (Outside UK)	3 weeks	£298	Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035/year main rate
Standard (Inside UK)	8 weeks	£298	IHS: £1,035/year main rate
Priority Processing (optional)	5 working days	£500	IHS: £1,035/year main rate
Super Priority Processing (optional)	Next working day	£1,000	IHS: £1,035/year main rate

 

Section E: Common Mistakes to Avoid in the UK International Agreement Visa Application

 

Applying for a UK International Agreement Visa can be complex, and even small errors in your application can lead to delays, additional costs, or even a refusal.

Common errors in the application process include:

 

Table: Common Mistakes & Solutions 

 

Common Mistake	Description	Consequences	How to Avoid
Incomplete Documentation	Missing required documents or providing outdated versions	Application delay or rejection	Use a checklist to ensure all documents are included
Errors in CoS	Incorrect details on the Certificate of Sponsorship	Application rejection	Verify details with your sponsor before submission
Insufficient Financial Evidence	Not showing enough funds or using incorrect statements	Application rejection	Ensure bank statements cover 28 consecutive days
Incorrect Information on Application Form	Mistakes in personal details, dates, or job description	Delays or rejection due to inconsistencies	Double-check all entries before submission
Delays in Biometric Submission	Not booking the biometric appointment in time	Delayed processing of the application	Schedule the appointment as soon as possible
Applying Too Late	Submitting the application too close to the travel date	Missed deadlines and travel delays	Apply several months in advance if possible

 

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Application Forms

Submitting forms that are incomplete or contain incorrect information can lead to processing delays or rejections. This includes missing sections, incorrect details, or mismatches between the application form and supporting documents.

Carefully review each section of the application form before submission. Double-check all details for accuracy and completeness. Ensure that all required fields are filled out correctly and match the information on your supporting documents.

 

2. Insufficient Supporting Documents

Failing to provide all required supporting documents or providing inadequate documentation can result in delays or refusal. Common issues include missing certificates, incomplete proof of employment, or improperly certified translations.

Refer to the official list of required documents and ensure you provide everything needed. Cross-check your documents against the requirements and keep a checklist to ensure nothing is missed. Provide clear, complete, and properly certified documents.

 

3. Errors in the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Mistakes or discrepancies in the CoS, such as incorrect job details or sponsorship information, can lead to complications. The CoS must accurately reflect the terms of your employment and sponsorship.

Verify the details on your CoS carefully. Ensure that the information matches your job offer and other application details. Contact your sponsor to correct any errors before submitting your application.

 

4. Not Meeting Financial Requirements

Not meeting the financial requirements or failing to provide adequate proof of financial support can result in a refused application. This is especially important for applicants who need to demonstrate financial means for themselves or their dependents.

Provide clear evidence of financial support if required. This may include bank statements, pay slips, or financial guarantees. Ensure the documents are up-to-date and reflect your ability to support yourself without relying on public funds.

 

5. Missing or Incorrect Biometric Information

Missing or incorrect biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs, can delay your application. Biometric information must be submitted accurately and in accordance with UKVI requirements.

Schedule and attend your biometric appointment promptly. Ensure that your biometric data is correctly recorded and that you receive confirmation of submission. Keep a copy of your biometric appointment receipt for reference.

 

6. Failing to Provide Certified Translations

Submitting documents that are not in English or Welsh without certified translations can lead to delays or refusal. Translations must be accurate and meet UKVI standards.

Obtain certified translations for any documents not in English or Welsh. Ensure that translations include the translator’s credentials and a statement confirming accuracy. Check that the translations comply with UKVI requirements.

 

7. Ignoring Application Deadlines

Missing deadlines for document submission, biometric appointments, or additional information requests can impact your application. Timely responses and submissions are crucial.

Keep track of all deadlines associated with your application. Set reminders for important dates and ensure that you submit all required documents and information on time. Respond promptly to any requests from UKVI.

 

8. Inaccurate Travel History or Immigration Records

Providing inaccurate or incomplete information about your travel history or previous immigration records can lead to complications. Inconsistent information can raise concerns during the application review.

Accurately report your travel history and previous immigration records. Ensure that all information is consistent with your passport and other documents. Address any discrepancies or omissions before submission.

 

9. Not Understanding the Visa Conditions

Failing to understand or comply with the specific conditions of the International Agreement Visa can lead to issues once in the UK. This includes conditions related to employment, duration of stay, and visa extensions.

Familiarise yourself with the conditions and requirements of the visa. Review any guidelines provided by UKVI and ensure that you adhere to all conditions during your stay in the UK.

 

Section F: Visa Holder Rights and Responsibilities

 

Under the International Agreement visa, workers have to comply with certain visa conditions. However, they also attain specific rights while in the UK.

 

1. Visa Holder Rights and Responsibilities

 

With the International Agreement visa, you will attain a number of rights while in the UK. However, you will also be subject to a number of visa conditions that you have to comply with.

 

Table: Visa Benefits & Restrictions 

Category	Description	Impact on Visa Holder	Exceptions
Work Flexibility	Limited to the role specified in the CoS	Cannot change roles without applying for a new visa	Some supplementary work may be allowed
Dependants’ Work Rights	Dependents can work in the UK	Dependents have work rights, subject to restrictions	No exceptions
Access to Public Funds	No access to public welfare benefits	Must be financially independent	No exceptions
Path to Settlement	No direct path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	Cannot apply for ILR under this visa	Must switch to a different visa for ILR
Healthcare Access	Requires payment of Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	Full access to the NHS during stay	Some diplomats may be exempt

 

 

a. Work Rights

Under the International Agreement Visa, you are authorised to work in the role specified in your visa application and CoS. You must adhere to the terms of your employment and work only for the employer specified in your visa.

Your employment must fall under the specific international agreement outlined in your visa. Working in a different role or for a different employer without proper authorisation could breach visa conditions.

 

b. Duration of Stay

You are allowed to stay in the UK for the duration specified in your visa. Ensure that you do not overstay your visa, as this can have serious consequences for future visa applications.

If you need to stay longer than initially granted, you must apply for an extension before your current visa expires. Ensure that your application for extension is submitted well in advance.

 

c. Visa Conditions

Comply with all conditions attached to your visa, including reporting any changes in your employment status, address, or personal details to UKVI.
Notify UKVI of any significant changes in your circumstances, such as a change of address, employer, or role.

Non-compliance with visa conditions can lead to visa cancellation or future application issues.

 

d. Compliance with UK Laws

Adhere to all UK laws and regulations, including those related to employment, immigration, and general conduct.

In most cases, you will also be required to pay taxes on your income in the UK. Register with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and ensure that you comply with UK tax laws, including filing tax returns if necessary.

 

2. Extending an International Agreement Visa

 

An International Agreement visa-holder can apply to extend their visa, although they must be in the UK to do this and continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

However, there are maximum lengths of stay under the International Agreement route.

Overseas government or international organisation workers can stay in the UK for a maximum period of 2 years.

Private servants or employees in the household of someone who works for a recognised international organisation can stay for a maximum of 5 years.

Importantly, when applying to extend an International Agreement visa, the permission given to the partner or dependent children of the primary visa-holder will not automatically extend at the same time. This means that any partner or dependent children must also apply to extend their stay, otherwise their visas will only be valid until their original end date. They can either apply at the same time as their partner or parent to extend their stay or at any time after, provided this is prior to expiry of their existing visa(s).

When applying for an extension of stay, the application can take up to 8 weeks using the standard service. During this time, the applicant and any dependants will not be permitted to travel outside the UK, otherwise risk having their application(s) withdrawn.

 

3. International Agreement Visa to UK ILR?

 

The International Agreement route does not offer a direct route to settlement. This means that an International Agreement worker will not be able to apply for what is known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR) on this route to allow them to settle in the UK on a permanent basis.

An International Agreement worker will instead be required to apply to switch into a different immigration route that provides a path to settlement, such as the Skilled Worker route, and to meet the eligibility requirements of that route. It is only in this way that they would then be able to apply for ILR at a later date, having met the applicable requirements for settlement including, for example, a continuous residence requirement on that route.

Under the previous International Agreement rules, provision was made for settlement by a private servant in a diplomatic household, but these provisions have been removed.

 

Section G: Summary

 

The International Agreement visa is a UK visa category for individuals who work in the UK under international treaties or agreements, such as diplomatic missions, military cooperation, or roles with international organisations like the UN. Applicants must be sponsored by an approved UK-based entity and provided a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which outlines the job role and eligibility.

There are important risks and considerations for applicants under this route. One key consideration is ensuring the role is directly covered by an international treaty, as unrelated positions could lead to rejection. Errors in documentation, particularly regarding the CoS, can also result in delays or refusals. It’s essential that applicants meet all financial and maintenance requirements, as failing to prove sufficient funds may result in a visa refusal.

Importantly, this visa does not lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain, making it unsuitable for those seeking long-term settlement in the UK.

 

Section H: Need Assistance?

 

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists, providing expert guidance on work visa applications. If you have a query about an International Agreement visa application, contact us.

 

Section I: UK International Agreement Visa FAQs

 

What is the International Agreement Visa?
The International Agreement Visa allows individuals to work in the UK under the terms of international treaties or agreements. Common applicants include diplomats, employees of international organisations, and military personnel stationed in the UK under agreements like NATO.

 

Who is eligible for the International Agreement Visa?
Eligibility depends on whether your employment falls under an international treaty. You must have a valid job offer and a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved UK sponsor. Your work must be directly linked to the international agreement governing your employment.

 

How long can I stay in the UK with this visa?
The visa is usually granted for the duration of your contract, up to a maximum of 2 years, though private servants in a diplomatic household can stay for up to 5 years through extensions. Extensions may be possible depending on your role and the agreement in place.

 

Can I bring my family with me?
Dependants (spouse/partner and children under 18) can accompany you to the UK. They will need to apply for their own visas, but they are allowed to live, study, and work in the UK.

 

Does this visa lead to settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)?
The International Agreement Visa does not provide a direct route to UK settlement. You would need to switch to another visa category if you intend to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.

 

What documents are required for the visa application?
Essential documents include a valid passport, Certificate of Sponsorship, proof of employment, maintenance funds, and biometric information. Specific roles may require additional documentation, such as diplomatic credentials.

 

Can I switch jobs while on this visa?
You are generally restricted to the job role specified in your Certificate of Sponsorship. If your job changes, you would need to apply for a new visa or update your sponsorship. Take professional advice to avoid falling out of lawful status.

 

Section: J Glossary

 

Term	Definition
International Agreement Visa	A UK visa for individuals working under international treaties or agreements, such as diplomats, international organisation employees, or military personnel.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	A reference number provided by a UK sponsor, confirming that an applicant has a valid job offer covered by an international agreement.
Sponsor	A UK-based employer or organisation that issues a Certificate of Sponsorship to the visa applicant, ensuring compliance with immigration requirements.
Dependants	Family members (spouse/partner and children under 18) who can accompany the primary visa holder to the UK and may have limited work and study rights.
Biometric Information	Personal data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, required as part of the visa application process to verify the applicant’s identity.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	A form of permanent residency allowing individuals to live and work in the UK without time restrictions. This visa does not lead to ILR.
Public Funds	UK government benefits, such as welfare, which visa holders are not eligible to access while on the International Agreement Visa.
Maintenance Funds	Financial proof showing that the visa applicant has sufficient funds to support themselves (and dependants) without relying on public funds.
Diplomatic Credentials	Official documentation proving an individual’s status as a diplomat or representative under international law, sometimes required for the visa.
UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration)	The government department responsible for managing the UK’s visa system and immigration rules, including issuing International Agreement Visas.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A fee paid by visa applicants to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay. Some diplomatic roles may be exempt from this charge.
Switching Visa	The process of changing from one type of UK visa to another. The International Agreement Visa typically does not allow switching to another visa type.
Trade Agreements	Formal agreements between countries that regulate services and work exchanges, relevant to some visa applicants under the International Agreement Visa.

 

 

Section K: Additional Resources

 

UK Government – International Agreement Visa Overview
https://www.gov.uk/tier-5-international-agreement
This official UK government resource provides detailed information on the International Agreement Visa, covering eligibility criteria, required documentation, and the application process.

 

UK Visa Sponsorship for Employers
https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers
This page outlines the responsibilities of UK employers acting as sponsors, including how to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and the legal obligations involved.

 

UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application
This page provides an overview of the Immigration Health Surcharge, which is required for most visa applicants, including those applying under the International Agreement Visa.

 

Visa Application Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk
A resource for starting your visa application, this link takes you to the UK government portal where you can begin the process of applying for the International Agreement Visa.