UK Minister of Religion Visa: Process & Requirements

If you are looking to come to the UK to work as a religious minister, and you are subject to UK immigration control, you will typically need a Minister of Religion visa.

The Minister of Religion Visa, part of the UK’s Tier 2 (now Skilled Worker) visa category, allows religious leaders and individuals with key roles in faith-based organisations to live and work in the UK. This visa is important for religious communities, enabling them to bring in qualified ministers, pastors, imams, rabbis, and other faith leaders who are vital to the spiritual and organisational well-being of their congregations.

The following comprehensive guide to the Minister of Religion visa looks at this category of visa in detail, from what this is and what it allows to whether this visa leads to settlement in the UK.

 

Section A: What is the Minister of Religion Visa (T2)?

 

Under the UK’s Immigration Rules, the Minister of Religion visa is the permission needed from the Home Office to come to the UK on the Minister of Religion (Ta) route.

This route replaced the Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) route under the previous version of the Rules, although existing Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) workers can still apply for extensions of stay, changes of employment and settlement under the T2 Minister of Religion route.

You can apply for a Minister of Religion visa if you have the offer of a job role within a UK-based faith community and you meet the other eligibility requirements under the Rules. The role on offer could be as a minister of religion or as a missionary or member of a religious order in the UK, although this route is essentially designed for those who will be undertaking a key leading role within their faith-based organisation or religious order.

 

1. Role of the Minister of Religion Visa

 

The Minister of Religion Visa allows religious leaders and faith workers to enter and reside in the UK to perform religious duties. These duties can range from leading worship and delivering sermons to providing spiritual guidance and pastoral care within religious communities. The visa category is part of the UK’s commitment to maintaining religious diversity and supporting the needs of various faith groups across the country.

The visa enables religious organisations in the UK to access a global pool of talent, bringing in individuals who can contribute significantly to their religious and community activities.

 

2. Permissible Activities

 

The Minister of Religion visa allows you to come to the UK to work in the job role you are being sponsored for, and which is stated on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

A visa on the T2 Minister of Religion route will typically be granted for up to 3 years. You may also be able to undertake a second job in the UK, in certain circumstances, as well as voluntary work or a course of studies, provided this does not interfere with your main role. You can also bring your partner and children with you to the UK as dependants if they have secured a dependent visa.

 

3. Who Qualifies for This Visa?

 

To qualify for the Minister of Religion Visa, the applicant must be a religious leader or worker who has a confirmed job offer in a recognised religious role within the UK. This visa is intended for individuals such as ministers, priests, imams, rabbis, and other faith leaders who play a central role in the practice and dissemination of their faith.

Key applicant qualifications include:

 

a. Religious Leadership Role

The applicant must have a confirmed job offer in a religious leadership or key religious worker role, such as leading worship, providing spiritual direction, or engaging in missionary work.

 

b. Skills and Experience

The applicant should have relevant experience and qualifications appropriate to the role. This typically includes formal religious training, ordination, or equivalent experience in religious duties.

 

c. English Language Proficiency

The applicant must meet the English language requirement by passing an approved English language test at the required level or by holding a degree taught in English.

 

Section B: Eligibility Criteria for the Minister of Religion Visa

 

Under the Minister of Religion visa rules, both the applicant and their sponsor must meet specific eligibility requirements:

 

1. Applicant Requirements

 

To be eligible for a Minister of Religion visa, you must meet the visa-specific eligibility criteria.

 

Table: Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility Requirement	Details	Required Documentation
Job Offer in a Religious Role	Must have a job offer from a licensed UK religious organisation	Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
English Language Proficiency	Must meet the required level of English, unless exempt	Approved English test results or degree
Maintenance Funds	Must have sufficient savings to support yourself	Bank statements or sponsor certification
Valid Passport	Passport must be valid with a blank page for visa vignette	Valid Passport
Qualifications and Experience	Must have relevant qualifications or experience for the role	Certificates, ordination documents

 

a. Certificate of Sponsorship

To apply to live in the UK on the T2 Minister of Religion route, you will need to have the offer of a job from a UK licensed sponsor. Your sponsor will check that you can do the job they are hiring you for and if it qualifies you for this category of visa. They will then assign you an electronic Certificate of Sponsorship to prove this, containing a unique reference number that you will need when you apply for your Minister of Religion visa.

 

b. English Language Proficiency

When it comes to your knowledge of English, you can satisfy this requirement by passing an approved English language test to at least level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, or by having an English-taught academic qualification that is recognised as being equivalent to a UK degree or PhD. If you are a national of an English majority-speaking country, you will be exempt from the English language requirement.

 

c. Maintenance Funds

You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account to show that you can support yourself when you first come to the UK. You must have had the money available in your account for at least 28 days, where day 28 must be within 31 days of applying for a visa. You will need to show proof of this when you apply unless you have been in the UK on a valid visa for 12 or more months, or, alternatively, your sponsor can cover your costs in the UK during your first month, up to an amount of £1,270.

If your sponsor is prepared to certify maintenance on your behalf, your Certificate of Sponsorship must confirm this.

If your partner and any dependent children are applying to accompany or join you in the UK, they will also need to prove that they can support themselves on arrival. In addition to any funds needed for your own application, this would be an extra £285 for a partner, £315 for any first child and £200 for each additional child. If your dependants are applying for a visa with you on this route, your employer may be able to certify maintenance for the whole family, although maintenance must be certified to this extent on your Certificate of Sponsorship.

 

Table: Financial Requirements for Maintenance Funds

Applicant Type	Required Maintenance Funds	Proof Period
Main Applicant	£1,270	Held for 28 consecutive days
Dependant (Spouse/Partner)	£285	Held for 28 consecutive days
Dependant (First Child)	£315	Held for 28 consecutive days
Dependant (Additional Children)	£200	Held for 28 consecutive days

 

d. Travel Requirements

Under the visa requirements, you must show that you are able to travel and provide evidence of your travel history over the last 5 years.

 

e. TB Test (if applicable)

If you are applying from a country where tuberculosis (TB) testing is mandatory, you must provide a medical certificate confirming that you are free from TB.

 

f. Aged 18 or over

You need to be aged 18 or over when you make the visa application.

 

g. Specific Skills or Experience

Applicants for the Minister of Religion Visa typically need:

 

i. Formal Religious Training: This may include ordination or equivalent religious qualifications, as well as years of experience in leading religious services or performing other significant religious duties.

ii. Specialised Knowledge: Depending on the role, the applicant might need specialised knowledge of religious texts, rituals, or practices that are essential to the faith community they will serve.

iii. Leadership Abilities: Applicants should demonstrate the ability to lead and guide a religious community, including delivering sermons, providing pastoral care, and overseeing religious ceremonies.

 

2. Sponsor Requirements

 

Importantly, only UK employers licensed to sponsor this category of worker will be able to assign you a valid Certificate of Sponsorship. If your prospective employer does not yet have an appropriate licence in place, they will first need to apply to become an approved sponsor on this route.

The organisation will need to prove that the job offered is genuine and necessary for the functioning of their religious community. They must demonstrate that the role contributes to the organisation’s spiritual and religious objectives.

Your employer must ensure that the role for which you are being sponsored pays at least the minimum wage and follows the UK rules for how many hours a week you work. If your employer fails to do this, your application for a Minister of Religion visa will be refused.

The sponsoring organisation also has to comply with all UK immigration laws and sponsor duties, including maintaining accurate records, reporting changes in the applicant’s circumstances, and ensuring the applicant is adhering to the terms of their visa.

 

Section C: Application Process for the Minister of Religion Visa

 

To apply for a Minister of Religion visa, you will need to submit an online application with the UK Home Office.

 

1. Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process

 

You can apply for a Minister of Religion visa up to 3 months before the date you are due to start your new job role in the UK. This date will be listed on your sponsorship certificate. You must use your Certificate of Sponsorship to apply for your visa within 3 months of it being issued to you.

The following are the key steps to apply:

 

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from a Licensed Sponsor

Before applying for the visa, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UK-based religious organisation that holds a valid sponsor license. The role should be a recognised religious position, such as a minister, imam, rabbi, or another faith leader.

 

Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship

The sponsoring religious organisation will need to assign a Certificate of Sponsorship to you. This is a unique reference number that must be included in your visa application. The Certificate of Sponsorship confirms that the organisation is sponsoring you for the specific role and outlines the job details, including the position, salary, and location.

 

Step 3: Prepare Supporting Documents

Gather all required documents for your application, which typically includes:

 

a. A valid passport or travel document.

b. The Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.

c. Proof of English language proficiency (such as an approved test certificate).

d. Evidence of personal savings to support yourself in the UK, if applicable.

e. Tuberculosis test results (if you’re from a country where this is required).

f. Any additional documents that demonstrate your qualifications or experience for the role.

 

Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official UK government visa application website to start your application. Select the “Minister of Religion Visa” category.

Fill out the application form with accurate personal details, your job information, and the Certificate of Sponsorship reference number. Ensure all information matches the details provided by your sponsor. Upload your supporting documents as required.

Next, you will need to pay the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which allows you access to the National Health Service during your stay in the UK.

 

Step 5: Verify Your Identity

After submitting your application online, you’ll be required to verify your identity either by using the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app or attending a biometric appointment at a visa application centre, where your fingerprints and photograph will be taken. You will be advised when you apply which option is open to you.

 

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Once all documents are uploaded, and your identity has been verified, submit your application. You will receive a confirmation of your submission, including a reference number to track the progress of your application.

 

Step 7: Wait for a Decision

After submission, your application will be processed by the Home Office. The standard processing time is typically around 3 weeks if you apply from outside the UK. However, this can vary depending on the country from which you are applying and the complexity of your case.

You can track your application online using the reference number provided after submission.

 

2. Timeframes for Processing

 

The Home Office will start processing your application once you have verified your identity and submitted your documents online using the UK Immigration: ID Check app or, alternatively, from when you attend your biometrics appointment.

You should get a decision on your application within 3 weeks.

If applying to switch from the UK, a decision should be made within 8 weeks. During this time, you will not be permitted to leave the Common Travel Area (CTA) — the UK, Republic of Ireland, as well as the Isle of Man and Channel Islands — otherwise risk having your visa application withdrawn.

Processing times can be extended if additional documentation is required, if you are asked to attend an interview, or if there is a high volume of applications at the time of submission.

When applying for a Minister of Religion visa, either from overseas or in the UK, you may be able to pay for a faster decision. You should be told if this is possible when you apply.

To apply for a decision within 5 working days (or soon after) using the priority service, this will cost an additional £500. You may also be able to pay an extra £1000 using the super priority service to receive a decision by the end of the next working day (or soon after).

Paying for a priority service does not guarantee that your application for a Minister of Religion visa will be successful, nor that your application will be processed more quickly. A decision could still take longer if your application is not straightforward. This could be where, for example, you need to attend an interview, have a criminal conviction or other personal circumstances that need to be carefully reviewed, or where you have not provided all the information or documentation that the caseworker needs to make a decision.

Once a decision is made, you will be notified via email or letter.

 

3. Minister of Religion Visa Costs

 

The cost to apply for a Minister of Religion visa will be made up of your visa application fee and an annual Immigration Health Surcharge. The amount of the fee will depend on where you are applying from, while the IHS will depend on the length of your visa.

 

Table: Visa Application Fees

Visa Type	Application Fee (Outside UK)	Application Fee (Inside UK)	Extension Fee
Minister of Religion Visa (3 years)	£719	£827	£827
Priority Service (optional and if available)	£500	£500	£500
Super Priority Service (optional and if available)	£1000	£1000	£1000

 

The application fee for a Minister of Religion visa when applying from outside the UK is £719. When applying to switch to this visa from the UK, the fee is £827.

The Immigration Health Surcharge is currently set at £1,035 per applicant per year of leave. This means for a three-year visa, you will need to pay £3,105 for the surcharge.

Any dependants applying with you will also be liable to pay the same application fee and the healthcare surcharge at the relevant rate.

Section D: Required Documents for the Minister of Religion Visa

Missing or incorrect documentation can lead to delays or even rejection of your application.

As well as certain core documents, you may also need additional documents depending on your personal circumstances, including any expired passport or travel document if you need to show your travel history.

As a minimum, you should provide the following with your application:

 

a. Valid Passport or Travel Document: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the UK and have a blank page for the visa vignette.

b. Certificate of Sponsorship: The unique reference number issued by your sponsoring religious organisation. This certificate confirms your job offer and provides details about your role, salary, and the sponsoring organisation.

c. Proof of English Language Proficiency: An approved English language test result, such as IELTS, demonstrating that you meet the required level of English. Alternatively, a degree taught in English may suffice if recognised by UK authorities. Exemptions apply if you are from a majority English-speaking country.

d. Evidence of Personal Savings (Maintenance Funds): Bank statements or savings account statements showing that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents while in the UK. The current requirement is usually to show at least £1,270 in savings held for at least 28 consecutive days prior to your application unless your sponsor is certifying your maintenance.

e. Tuberculosis Test Results (if applicable): Required if you are applying from a country where tuberculosis (TB) testing is mandatory. You must provide a medical certificate confirming that you are free from TB.

f. Proof of Qualifications and Experience: Documents such as ordination certificates, theological degrees, or letters of reference that prove your qualifications for the religious role you will be undertaking in the UK.

g. Employment History and References: Detailed CV or resume outlining your work experience, particularly in religious roles, and professional references from previous employers or religious institutions that validate your experience and suitability for the position.

h. Immigration Health Surcharge Payment Confirmation: Proof of payment for the IHS, which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service during your stay.

i. Additional Supporting Documents (if applicable): Marriage certificate or birth certificates for dependents if they are applying with you, and previous visa documentation or evidence of residency in the UK if you’ve lived there before.

 

Table: Required Documents Checklist

Document	Required for Initial Application	Required for Extension	Required for Dependants
Valid Passport	✓	✓	✓
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	✓	✓	No
Proof of English Language Proficiency	✓	No	No
Evidence of Maintenance Funds	✓	✓	✓
Biometric Information	✓	✓	✓
Tuberculosis Test Results (if applicable)	✓	No	✓
Proof of Qualifications	✓	✓	No
Immigration Health Surcharge Payment Confirmation	✓	✓	✓

 

Section E: Visa Duration and Extension for the Minister of Religion Visa

 

You can come to the UK on the Minister of Religion visa route for a maximum of 3 years and 1 month, or the time given on your Certificate of Sponsorship, plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.

To remain in the UK for longer, you may be able to extend your visa.
The maximum total stay under the Minister of Religion Visa, however, is 6 years. This includes any initial visa period and any subsequent extensions.

The Minister of Religion visa also offers a path to UK settlement.

 

1. Extend a Minister of Religion Visa

 

You can apply to extend your stay on this route, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements and apply before your existing visa expires. You can extend your visa for up to 3 years, or the time given on your Certificate of Sponsorship, plus 14 days, or the time required to take your total stay in the UK to a maximum of 6 years, whichever is shorter.

Your partner or child’s visa will not automatically extend if you extend yours, although their existing visa will remain valid until its original end date. They can either apply for an extension of stay at the same time as you, or at any time before their current visa expires.

The fee to apply to extend a visa on the T2 Minister of Religion route is £827 per person. You will also be liable to pay the healthcare surcharge for each additional year of stay.

 

2. Minister of Religion Visa to Indefinite Leave to Remain

 

After continuously living in the UK on this route for 5 years, you may be eligible to apply to settle on a permanent basis, commonly known as indefinite leave to remain. This will allow you to live and work in the UK free from immigration restrictions.

However, you must meet the ongoing salary requirements under this route, and continue to be needed for your job role and meet the salary requirements after being granted indefinite leave to remain. You will not need a fresh Certificate of Sponsorship to prove this, but you will need a document from your sponsor to confirm that you will be paid at least the equivalent to UK workers in the same role and that your job role meets the national minimum wage requirements. To apply for indefinite leave to remain, you will also need to show your knowledge of life in the UK. This means that you must book and pass the Life in the UK Test before applying.

 

3. Conditions for Switching to Other Visa Categories

 

In some cases, you may be able to switch from the Minister of Religion Visa to another visa category while you are still in the UK. Common categories to switch to include:

 

a. Skilled Worker Visa: If you find a job that is not a religious role but meets the requirements of the Skilled Worker Visa, you can switch to this visa. Your new employer must be a licensed sponsor and issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship.

b. Family Visas: If you have a partner or parent who is a British citizen or settled in the UK, you may be eligible to switch to a Family Visa, which allows you to stay in the UK based on your relationship.

 

You cannot, however, switch to certain visa categories, such as Visitor Visas, while you are in the UK. You also cannot switch to a different visa category if your current visa has expired, so timing is crucial.

 

Section F: Rights and Obligations Under the Minister of Religion Visa

 

The Minister of Religion Visa grants specific rights to work and live in the UK, but it also comes with certain obligations that you must adhere to throughout your stay.

 

1. Work Rights and Limitations

 

As a holder of the Minister of Religion Visa, you are primarily permitted to work in the religious role specified in your Certificate of Sponsorship. This includes leading religious services, providing spiritual guidance, engaging in community outreach, and other duties related to your position.

Your employment must be with the sponsoring religious organisation that issued your Certificate of Sponsorship. You cannot change employers without first obtaining a new Certificate of Sponsorship and, in some cases, applying for a new visa.

You may take on additional employment outside of your primary role, but there are specific conditions:

 

a. The supplementary job must be in the same profession as your primary role or at the same skill level.

b. You can work up to 20 hours per week in this supplementary employment.

c. This additional job must not interfere with your main duties as outlined in your Certificate of Sponsorship.

 

You are not allowed to engage in self-employment, start your own business, or take up work as a professional sportsperson or coach. Any work outside the scope of your primary and supplementary roles is not permitted under this visa category.

You are also allowed to engage in voluntary or unpaid work for registered charities or organisations. This can be in addition to your paid employment, provided it does not conflict with your main job responsibilities.

 

2. Other Permitted Activities While in the UK

 

You can undertake courses of study while in the UK, either part-time or full-time, provided it does not interfere with your primary employment responsibilities. However, if you intend to study full-time, you may need to switch to a Student Visa.

Some professional courses or studies may require specific permission, so it’s advisable to check with the relevant authorities before enrolling.

You can travel in and out of the UK freely while your visa is valid. However, it is essential to ensure that your visa remains valid during your travels. If your visa is close to expiring, it’s wise to renew it before travelling to avoid issues when re-entering the UK.

You are permitted to bring your dependents (spouse, partner, and children) to the UK under your visa. They can live with you, and your spouse or partner can work or study in the UK without restriction. Dependants must also comply with UK visa regulations and maintain their legal status.

By paying the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application, you and your dependents have access to the UK’s National Health Service. This includes most healthcare services, although some may require additional payment, such as dental care and certain prescriptions.

 

3. Obligations to Report Changes and Maintain Status

 

If there are any significant changes in your employment, such as a change in job title, duties, or salary, you must report these to the Home Office. Your sponsoring organisation is also required to report these changes through the Sponsorship Management System.

If you leave your job or change employers, you must inform the Home Office immediately and may need to apply for a new visa if you wish to continue working in the UK.

You also have to keep your personal details up to date with the Home Office. This includes changes in your residential address, contact information, or family status (such as marriage or the birth of a child). Changes should be reported promptly, typically within 10 days of the change occurring, to ensure your records are accurate.

It is your responsibility to ensure that your visa remains valid throughout your stay. This includes applying for an extension before your current visa expires and adhering to the terms of your visa conditions. If your visa expires while you are still in the UK, you could be considered an overstayer, which can lead to severe penalties, including deportation and a ban on returning to the UK for a certain period.

You must comply with all UK laws during your stay. Any criminal activity or breach of immigration laws can result in your visa being revoked and potential legal action. This includes adhering to tax regulations if you are employed in a supplementary job or involved in any income-generating activities.

If you decide to leave the UK permanently before your visa expires, you should inform the Home Office. Failure to do so could affect your immigration record and any future visa applications.

If any of your dependants experience changes in their circumstances, such as changes in education or employment status, these must also be reported to the Home Office. This is particularly important if your dependent spouse or partner is working, as they must comply with employment laws.

 

Section G: Common Challenges with Minister of Religion Visa Applications

 

Applying for the Minister of Religion Visa can become complex, with several common challenges that applicants may face, including:

 

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

One of the most common reasons for visa rejection is the submission of incomplete or incorrect documentation. Missing key documents, providing outdated or incorrect information, or failing to include all necessary supporting evidence can result in your application being denied.

Start gathering your documents early and ensure that everything is in order. Double-check that all documents are up-to-date, complete, and meet the specific requirements outlined by the Home Office. This includes your passport, Certificate of Sponsorship, financial evidence, and English language test results.

 

2. Failure to Meet Financial Requirements

If you do not demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents during your stay in the UK, your visa application may be rejected. This includes not meeting the maintenance funds requirement or failing to provide adequate proof of your financial status.

Make sure you have the required maintenance funds in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying. Provide clear and accurate bank statements or other financial documents that meet the Home Office’s specifications.

 

3. Issues with the Certificate of Sponsorship

Your application can be rejected if there are problems with your Certificate of Sposnorship, such as incorrect information, a mismatch between the job role and the visa category, or if the Certificate of Sposnorship is not valid at the time of application.

Work closely with your sponsoring organisation to ensure that your Certificate of Sponsorship is correctly issued and contains accurate information. Verify that the job role, salary, and other details match those in your visa application.

 

4. Non-Compliance with Immigration Rules

If you have previously breached UK immigration rules, such as overstaying a visa or working without proper authorisation, your application may be refused.

 

5. Criminal Record or Security Concerns

Having a criminal record or being deemed a security risk can lead to visa rejection. The Home Office conducts background checks, and any adverse findings could result in your application being denied.

Provide honest and accurate information throughout your application. If you have any previous issues with immigration, address them openly and provide any required explanations or documentation.

 

6. Inaccurate or Misleading Information

Providing false or misleading information on your visa application, whether intentional or accidental, can lead to refusal. It is essential to ensure that all the information provided is accurate and truthful.

Be thorough and precise when filling out your application form. Answer all questions accurately, and do not leave any sections incomplete. Any gaps or inconsistencies could raise concerns with the caseworker.

 

Section H: Summary

 

The Minister of Religion visa (T2) is a UK visa category designed for religious leaders and workers who have a confirmed job offer within a religious role in the UK. It enables them to live and work in the UK, carrying out duties such as leading worship, providing spiritual guidance, and engaging in community work. The visa is typically granted for up to three years and one month, with the possibility of extension up to a maximum of six years.

Applicants must secure a job offer from a UK-based religious organisation that holds a valid sponsor licence. They are also required to meet specific criteria, including demonstrating proficiency in English and showing they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.

Key risks for applicants include the potential for visa refusal if they fail to meet the financial or language requirements, or if their documentation is incomplete or inaccurate.

Changes in employment circumstances, such as switching employers, require careful management to avoid breaching visa conditions.

 

Section I: Need Assistance?

 

For specialist guidance on making an application for a Minister of Religion visa, or if you are a religious organisation requiring support with your sponsor licence, contact our experts.

 

Section J: FAQs

 

What is the Minister of Religion Visa?
The Minister of Religion Visa is a UK visa category intended for religious leaders and workers who have a confirmed job offer in a religious role within the UK. It allows them to live and work in the UK while fulfilling their religious duties.

 

Who is eligible to apply for the Minister of Religion Visa?
To be eligible, you must have a confirmed job offer from a UK-based religious organisation that holds a valid sponsor licence. You must also meet specific criteria, including proficiency in English and sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay.

 

How long is the Minister of Religion Visa valid?
The visa is typically granted for up to 3 years and 1 month, with the possibility of extension. The maximum total stay under this visa is 6 years.

 

Can I extend my Minister of Religion Visa?
Yes, you can apply to extend your visa if you continue to work for the same sponsoring organisation and meet the extension requirements. Extensions are usually granted for up to 3 years, depending on the length of your employment contract.

 

What documents are required to apply for the Minister of Religion Visa?
Key documents include a valid passport, Certificate of Sponsorship, proof of English language proficiency, financial evidence, and any relevant qualifications or experience.

 

What are the financial requirements for this visa?
You must demonstrate at least £1,270 in personal savings to support yourself in the UK, held for at least 28 consecutive days before your application. Additional funds are required for any dependants.

 

Can I bring my family with me on this visa?
Yes, you can bring your spouse or partner and children as dependants, provided they are eligible for a dependent visa. They will be granted the same length of stay as you and can live with you in the UK.

 

Can I work in another job while on the Minister of Religion Visa?
You can take on supplementary employment of up to 20 hours per week, provided it is in the same profession and skill level as your main job. However, your primary focus must remain on your religious duties.

 

What happens if my visa application is refused?
If your application is refused, you will receive a notice explaining the reasons for the refusal. You may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply after addressing the issues that led to the refusal.

 

Can I switch to another visa category while in the UK?
Yes, you may be able to switch to another visa category, such as the Skilled Worker Visa or a Family Visa, if you meet the eligibility requirements for that category.

 

What should I do if my circumstances change while in the UK?
You must report any significant changes in your circumstances to the Home Office. This includes changes in your job, address, or personal status, such as getting married or having children.

 

Can I apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after holding this visa?
After 5 continuous years in the UK under the Minister of Religion Visa (or a combination of qualifying visas), you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain, allowing you to live permanently in the UK.

 

Do I need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?
Most applicants have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of their visa application. This surcharge grants you access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.

 

What if I want to change employers while on this visa?
If you wish to change employers, you will need to obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship from the new employer and apply for a new visa. You cannot start the new job until your new visa has been approved.

 

How much is a Minister of Religion visa UK?
The cost to apply for a Minister of Religion visa is £719 when applying from outside the UK, or £827 when applying to switch to this category of visa from in the UK, or applying to extend your existing visa.

 

How long does a Minister of Religion visa last?
A Minister of Religion visa will initially be granted for up to 3 years or the length of your sponsored role, whichever is shorter. If you continue to meet the eligibility requirements, you can also apply to extend your visa.

 

What are the English requirements for Minister of Religion visa?
For a Minister of Religion visa, you may need an English-taught academic qualification equivalent to a UK degree or PhD, or to pass an approved English language test to level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

 

What is a Tier 2 Minister of Religion visa?
The T2 Minister of Religion visa has replaced the former Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) visa under the UK’s Immigration Rules, although existing workers on the previous route can apply for extensions of stay and settlement under the replacement route.

 

Section K: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
Minister of Religion Visa	A UK visa category for religious leaders and workers, allowing them to work in the UK.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	A unique reference number issued by a licensed sponsor confirming a job offer for visa applicants.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)	The government department responsible for managing UK visa and immigration processes.
Skilled Worker Route	A visa category under which the Minister of Religion Visa falls, allowing skilled workers to enter the UK.
Maintenance Funds	The amount of personal savings required to support yourself and any dependents while in the UK.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A fee paid by visa applicants to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)	A document issued to visa holders in the UK, serving as proof of their immigration status.
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)	Permanent residency status in the UK, allowing individuals to live without time restrictions.
English Language Requirement	A requirement for visa applicants to demonstrate proficiency in English, usually through an approved test.
Sponsor Licence	A licence that UK employers must obtain to sponsor foreign workers for visas.
Supplementary Employment	Additional employment that visa holders may undertake alongside their primary job, within certain conditions.
Sponsorship Management System (SMS)	The online system used by sponsors to manage and issue Certificates of Sponsorship.
Immigration Rules	The legal framework governing the entry, stay, and conditions for foreign nationals in the UK.
Financial Requirement	The monetary threshold applicants must meet to prove they can financially support themselves in the UK.
Dependants	Family members (spouse, partner, children) who can join the main visa holder in the UK.
Visa Extension	The process of applying to extend the duration of an existing visa before it expires.
Immigration Adviser	A professional who provides legal guidance and assistance with visa applications and immigration matters.
Immigration History	A record of an individual’s previous interactions with immigration authorities, including past visas and compliance.

Section L: Additional Resources

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – Minister of Religion Visa Overview
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/religious-workers
This official UK government page provides a comprehensive overview of the Minister of Religion Visa, including eligibility criteria, application process, and visa conditions.

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – Apply for a UK Visa
https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk
The main portal for applying for a UK visa, where you can complete your application, pay fees, and book biometric appointments.

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – Certificate of Sponsorship Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/sponsorship-information-for-employers-and-educators
Detailed guidance for UK employers and sponsors on how to obtain and manage a Certificate of Sponsorship for visa applicants.

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – English Language Requirements
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/prove-your-english-language-abilities-with-a-secure-english-language-test-selt
Information on the approved English language tests and the proficiency levels required for UK visas.

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/how-much-pay
Details on the Immigration Health Surcharge, including how much you need to pay and how it allows you access to the NHS.

 

Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) – Find an Immigration Adviser
https://www.gov.uk/find-an-immigration-adviser
Use this tool to locate a registered immigration adviser who can provide professional guidance on your visa application.

 

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) Guidance
https://www.gov.uk/indefinite-leave-to-remain
Comprehensive information on applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK after holding a qualifying visa for 5 years.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) – Immigration Rules

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules
Access the complete set of UK immigration rules that govern visa applications, including the Minister of Religion Visa.

 

Law Society – Immigration Law Support
https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topics/immigration
Provides resources and information for those seeking legal advice on immigration matters, including visa applications and appeals.