Temporary Work Visa UK: Types, Guide & Application

The UK offers a range of temporary work visas that allow foreign nationals to work in the UK on a short-term basis.

These visas cater to various professions and industries, from creative and charity workers to religious and seasonal workers. Each visa type has specific eligibility criteria and conditions, which applicants will need to understand before making an application.

Importantly, temporary work visas require sponsorship by a licensed employer, who must hold a valid Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence.

In this guide, we outline the main temporary visa options for foreign national workers, with practical insights into the eligibility and application requirements.

 

Section A: What is a Temporary Work Visa in the UK?

 

A temporary work visa in the UK is a type of visa that allows individuals from around the world to work in the country for a limited period. These visas are specifically for individuals who wish to engage in short-term employment in the UK, often tied to specific sectors or job roles that require temporary workers.

Unlike long-term work visas, such as the Skilled Worker Visa, temporary work visas do not typically lead to permanent residency or settlement in the UK.

To be eligible for a temporary work visa, individuals will first need to have a job offer and have secured sponsorship by a qualifying UK employer.

 

1. Types of UK Temporary Work Visa

 

The UK currently offers the following temporary work visas to overseas nationals:

 

a. Creative Worker Visa: Allows individuals to work in the UK temporarily in the creative industries, such as acting, music, and film, with sponsorship from a licensed employer.

You can read our extensive guide to the Creative Worker Visa here >>

 

b. Charity Worker Visa: Permits individuals to engage in unpaid voluntary work for a UK-registered charity for up to 12 months.

You can read our extensive guide to the Charity Visa UK here >>

 

c. Religious Worker Visa: Enables individuals to undertake religious work in the UK, such as preaching or pastoral care, sponsored by a religious organisation.

You can read our extensive guide to the Religious Worker Visa >>

 

d. Government Authorised Exchange Visa: Facilitates temporary work or training in the UK as part of an approved government exchange programme, focusing on cultural or professional development.

You can read our extensive guide to the Government Authorised Exchange Visa here >>

 

e. International Agreement Visa: Allows individuals to work in the UK under international agreements, such as diplomats or employees of overseas governments.

You can read our extensive guide to the International Agreement Visa here >>

 

f. Seasonal Worker Visa: Grants permission for temporary work in the UK’s horticulture sector or poultry production for up to 6 months during peak seasons.

You can read our extensive guide to the Seasonal Worker Visa UK here >>

 

Under a temporary worker visa, the visa-holder will be allowed to come to the UK to work in the job role for which they are being sponsored.

In some cases, supplementary employment may be allowed, depending on the visa route. However, a temporary worker visa-holder will not have access to public funds during their stay in the UK, even if they are not permitted to take a second job under the rules.

Visa-holders can also study in the UK, subject to the Academic Technology Approval Scheme rules, and they will also be allowed to travel in and out of the UK during the validity of their visa.

When a temporary worker visa is due to expire — unless the visa-holder is eligible to extend their stay on the same immigration route, where they have not exceeded the maximum grant of permission allowed — they must either leave the UK or apply to switch to another type of visa, provided this is permissible under the route-specific rules.

 

2. Employer Sponsorship

 

UK-based organisations looking to recruit foreign nationals under any one of the temporary worker routes must be licensed by the Home Office to sponsor any individual who is not a settled worker or does not otherwise have permission to work in the UK. This means that the employer must have a valid Temporary Worker sponsor licence and have been approved to sponsor the specific category of workers in question.

A Temporary Worker licence is the permission needed from the Home Office to assign Certificates of Sponsorship to migrant workers. The Certificate of Sponsorship is an electronic record containing a unique reference number that each new recruit will need to apply for a Temporary Worker visa. The information contained on each Certificate of Sponsorship confirms the details of the job for which the migrant worker will be sponsored.

You can read our extensive guide to the Certificate of Sponsorship here >>

 

Section B: What Are the Temporary Work Visas in the UK?

 

The UK offers the following visa routes for temporary workers:

 

1. Temporary Worker – Creative Worker Visa

 

This is for foreign nationals with the offer of short-term work within the creative industry in the UK for up to 12 months, where they can make a unique contribution to the UK’s cultural life as either an entertainer, artist or other type of creative worker, with the option to extend to up to 24 months maximum.

Eligible roles include actors, dancers, musicians, and other performers, as well as creative professionals like artists and film crew members.

Holders of this visa are allowed to take on additional work within the creative sector under certain conditions.

You can read our extensive guide to the Creative Worker Visa here >>

 

2. Temporary Worker – Charity Worker Visa

 

This is for foreign nationals with the offer to do voluntary work for a recognised charitable organisation in the UK for up to 12 months.

This visa is specifically for those who will be engaging in activities that directly benefit the charity and do not involve paid work or remuneration, and is ideal for those committed to making a difference through voluntary work in the UK.

Applicants must have a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed charitable organisation in the UK.

The visa allows for a stay of up to 12 months, with no option to switch to another visa category or extend the stay beyond this period.

You can read our extensive guide to the Charity Visa UK here >>

 

3. Temporary Worker – Religious Worker Visa

 

This is for foreign nationals with the opportunity to support the activities of a UK religious institution, either by working in a religious order or doing non-pastoral work, for up to 2 years.

Qualifying religious work can include preaching, pastoral work, or work within a religious order.

This visa is applicable for those who have a job offer from a religious organisation in the UK that is a licensed sponsor. The visa typically allows for a stay of up to 24 months.

Applicants must demonstrate their intention to work in a role that supports the religious mission of the sponsoring organisation. This visa is not intended for those seeking to lead a religious organisation or establish new congregations, which would require a different visa type.

You can read our extensive guide to the Religious Worker Visa >>

 

4. Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange Visa

 

This is for foreign nationals taking part in an approved exchange scheme for the purposes of training, research or work experience for up to either 12 months or 24 months, depending on the nature of the exchange.

This visa is not intended for direct employment but rather for cultural exchange and professional development opportunities, which may include work experience, internships, training, research, or fellowships.

Applicants must have a Certificate of Sponsorship from an organisation running an approved exchange programme.

You can read our extensive guide to the Government Authorised Exchange Visa here >>

 

5. Temporary Worker – International Agreement Visa

 

This is for foreign nationals providing a service in the UK covered under international law, such as employees of international organisations or private servants in diplomatic households, typically for up to 2 years.

Applicants must have a Certificate of Sponsorship from an employer who is party to such an agreement and is a licensed sponsor in the UK. The length of stay on this visa depends on the specific agreement but typically does not exceed two years.

You can read our extensive guide to the International Agreement Visa here >>

 

6. Temporary Worker – Seasonal Worker Visa

 

This is for foreign nationals with the offer of horticulture work in the UK for up to 6 months or within the poultry production sector from 2 October to 31 December of the same yea, with an approved scheme operator.

To qualify, applicants must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor in the UK and meet specific requirements related to the sector. The visa does not permit visa holders to switch to another visa category or extend their stay.

You can read our extensive guide to the Seasonal Worker Visa UK here >>

 

Section C: Eligibility Criteria for a Temporary Work Visa

 

Applying for a temporary work visa in the UK involves meeting specific eligibility criteria, which vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

Each visa category is designed to cater to different types of employment and imposes specific requirements which must be met in addition to the general requirements.

 

Table: Eligibility Criteria for Each Visa Type

Visa Type	Key Eligibility Criteria	Additional Requirements
Creative Worker Visa	Job offer in the creative sector, CoS from sponsor	May require proof of experience in creative industries
Charity Worker Visa	Unpaid voluntary work, CoS from a licensed charity	Must demonstrate genuine voluntary work, not replacing paid jobs
Religious Worker Visa	Religious role, CoS from a religious organisation	May require proof of religious qualifications or experience
International Agreement Visa	Job under an international agreement, CoS from sponsor	Must be linked to terms of the specific international agreement
Seasonal Worker Visa	Seasonal job in horticulture or poultry, CoS from sponsor	No option to extend or switch to another visa category
Government Authorised Exchange Visa	Participation in an approved exchange program, CoS required	Non-employment purpose; focused on cultural exchange or training

 

While the specific requirements differ, there are several common eligibility criteria that applicants must satisfy to qualify for any of these visas.

 

1. Sponsorship

Most temporary work visas require the applicant to have a job offer from a UK-based employer who is a licensed sponsor. The employer must provide a Certificate of Sponsorship to the applicant, which outlines the job role and confirms that the job is eligible for a temporary work visa.

You can read our extensive guide to the Principles of Immigration Sponsorship here >>

 

2. Job Role

The applicant’s job role must align with the specific visa category. For example, a Charity Worker Visa would require the individual to be involved in unpaid charitable work, while a Seasonal Worker Visa would be applicable for roles in sectors like horticulture or poultry farming.

 

3. Financial Requirements

Applicants may need to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in the UK. In most cases, when applying for entry clearance from overseas, the applicant must have funds of at least £1,270 and have held these funds for a period of 28 days or, alternatively, have their sponsor certify maintenance on their Certificate of Sponsorship.

 

4. English Language Proficiency

While not always required, some temporary work visas may require the applicant to prove their proficiency in English, particularly if the job role demands it.

 

5. Genuineness

With the exception of Seasonal Workers, the Home Office must be satisfied that the applicant genuinely intends to undertake the role described on their Certificate of Sponsorship, is capable of undertaking that role and does not intend to undertake employment in the UK other than in the role for which they are being sponsored.

 

6. Additional Requirements

Depending on the visa type, there may be additional requirements such as passing a tuberculosis (TB) test, providing a criminal record certificate, or meeting specific qualifications related to the job.

 

Section D: How to Apply for a Temporary Work Visa

 

Whether you are applying for a Creative Worker Visa, Charity Worker Visa, or any other temporary work visa, you will need to follow the correct procedure to avoid potential processing delays or even an application refusal.

Temporary worker visas are generally applied for from overseas. This is because applicants cannot normally switch into temporary worker routes from another route while in the UK. The only exceptions are those who hold, or were last granted, permission as a Student, where they may be eligible to switch into the Temporary Work – Government Authorised Exchange route. In these cases, an application made from the UK will typically take up to 8 weeks.

 

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

 

The key steps to applying for a Temporary Worker visa include:

 

Step 1: Determine the Correct Visa Type

Before starting your application, ensure that you have selected the correct visa type based on your job role and circumstances. Each visa category has specific requirements and conditions, so it will be important to choose the one that aligns with your employment situation.

 

Step 2: Obtain a Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship

Secure a job offer from a UK-based employer or organisation that is a licensed sponsor. Your employer will need to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship, which is a reference number that you will need for your visa application. The Certificate of Sponsorship will include details about your job, the duration of employment, and your sponsor’s information.

 

Step 3: Gather Required Documentation

Collect all necessary documents to support your visa application, as detailed below.

 

Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official UK government visa and immigration website and complete the online visa application form. You’ll need to enter your personal details, Certificate of Sponsorship reference number, and information about your job and employer. Ensure that all information is accurate and matches the details on your supporting documents.

 

Step 5: Pay the Visa Application Fee

After completing the application form, you will be prompted to pay the visa application fee. The fee varies depending on the type of visa and the length of your stay. Some applicants may also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to the National Health Service.

 

Step 6: Verify Your Identity

Once your application and payment are submitted, you will need to verify your identity.

Depending on your nationality and the type of passport you hold, you may be eligible to use the ‘UK Immigration: ID Check’ app. In other cases, they may be asked to schedule an appointment at an overseas visa application centre. You will be advised when making your application which option is open to you.

In either case, you will need to submit a number of documents in support of their application, including a valid passport or other travel document to verify their identity and nationality.

This step is mandatory for all applicants and must be completed before your application can be processed.

 

Step 7: Submit Your Application and Supporting Documents

After attending your biometrics appointment, submit your completed application and all supporting documents, either online or in person, depending on the instructions provided. Ensure that you keep copies of all documents for your records.

 

Step 8: Wait for a Decision

After submitting your application, you will need to wait for a decision from the Home Office. The processing time can vary depending on the visa type and whether you applied from within or outside the UK. You can check the current processing times on the UK government website.

You can read our extensive guide to the UK Visa Application Process here >>

 

2. Required Documentation

 

The key documents required for a temporary work visa application include:

 

a. Certificate of Sponsorship: Issued by your UK-based employer, this document confirms your job offer and provides important details needed for your visa application.

b. Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in the UK.

c. Proof of Funds: Evidence that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay, such as recent bank statements.

d. Qualifications and Work Experience: Documents that demonstrate your qualifications and experience relevant to the job you have been offered.

e. TB Test Results: Required if you are from a country where tuberculosis screening is mandatory for visa applicants.

f. Criminal Record Certificate: May be required for certain roles, especially those involving vulnerable groups.

g. English Language Proficiency: Some visa categories may require proof of your ability to speak, read, write, and understand English.

You can read our extensive guide to the UK Visa Supporting Documents here >>

 

3. Temporary Worker Visa Fees

 

The cost of a temporary work visa varies by category and the length of your intended stay. Fees typically range from £298 to £822, but you should check the latest fee schedule when making your application.

Most applicants with visas lasting more than 6 months will also be liable to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for each year of leave they are granted.

Other costs associated with the Temporary Worker visa include the cost of assigning the sponsorship certificate, which is £25.

Where the employer does not yet hold a valid sponsor licence for the route under which they intend to sponsor a Temporary Worker, they will need to apply for a licence before they can assign a Certificate of Sponsorship. The cost to apply for a Temporary Worker licence is £536, both for small and large sponsors.

You can find a complete list of UK Visa Fees 2024 here >>

 

4. Temporary Worker Visa Application Processing Times

 

Once the application for a Temporary Worker visa has been completed, the fee paid, documents submitted, and any biometrics enrolled, a decision will usually be made within 3 weeks. Expedited services may be available for an additional fee.

In addition to the visa fee, you may need to pay the Immigration Healthcare Surcharge per year of your stay, allowing you access to the NHS.

You can read our extensive guide to Uk Visa Processing Times here >>

 

5. Tips for Avoiding Common Application Mistakes

 

Errors or mistakes in your application can result in delayed processing or potentially a refused visa. Follow these best practices to avoid common application mistakes:

 

a. Double-Check Your Documentation

Ensure all your documents are complete, up-to-date, and match the information provided in your application. Missing or incorrect documents are one of the most common reasons for visa delays or rejections.

 

b. Accurately Complete the Application Form

Take your time to fill out the application form carefully. Any inconsistencies or mistakes can lead to delays or even refusal of your visa application.

 

c. Meet Financial Requirements

Make sure you meet the financial requirements and can prove it with clear, detailed bank statements or financial documents. Insufficient funds are a frequent issue for applicants.

 

d. Submit the Application Early

Start your application process early to account for any unexpected delays. Rushing the application can lead to errors or missing documents.

 

e. Use a Reputable Sponsor

Ensure your employer or sponsoring organisation is a licensed sponsor. An invalid sponsor can invalidate your entire application.

 

Section E: Duration and Conditions of a Temporary Work Visa

 

Each visa type has specific rules regarding how long you can stay in the country, what you are permitted to do during your stay, and whether you can extend your visa or switch to another visa category.

 

1. Length of Stay Allowed Under Each Visa Type

 

Visa Type	Length of Stay
Creative Worker Visa	Up to 12 months, extendable to 24 months
Charity Worker Visa	Up to 12 months, non-extendable
Religious Worker Visa	Up to 24 months
International Agreement Visa	Typically up to 24 months, depending on the agreement
Seasonal Worker Visa	Up to 6 months in a 12-month period
Government Authorised Exchange Visa	Up to 12 or 24 months, depending on the program

 

a. Temporary Worker – Creative Worker Visa

This visa typically allows you to stay in the UK for up to 12 months. If your employment is shorter, your visa will match the duration of your job as specified in your Certificate of Sponsorship. There is an option to extend the visa for an additional 12 months, making the total possible duration up to 24 months.

 

b. Temporary Worker – Charity Worker Visa

The Charity Worker Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 12 months. The duration is tied to the period stated in your Certificate of Sponsorship, which cannot exceed one year. Extensions are not allowed, meaning you must leave the UK at the end of your visa period.

 

c. Temporary Worker – Religious Worker Visa

This visa permits a stay of up to 24 months, depending on the length of your role, as indicated in the Certificate of Sponsorship. You can apply for an extension if your sponsoring organisation requires you to stay longer, with the total duration not exceeding 24 months from the original visa start date.

 

d. Temporary Worker – International Agreement Visa

The duration of stay under this visa depends on the specific international agreement governing your work. Generally, the visa is granted for up to 24 months, but the exact duration may vary. Extensions may be possible, depending on the terms of the agreement and your role.

 

e. Temporary Worker – Seasonal Worker Visa

This visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 6 months within any 12-month period. It is designed specifically for seasonal work, and there are no provisions for extending the visa beyond the 6-month limit. Visa holders must leave the UK after their work period ends.

 

f. Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange Visa

The duration of this visa is tied to the length of the government-authorised exchange program you are participating in. Typically, the visa is issued for up to 12 or 24 months, depending on the program. Extensions may be possible if the exchange program continues beyond the initial visa period.

 

2. Visa Conditions and Restrictions

 

Each visa type is generally restricted to the specific job or role described in your Certificate of Sponsorship. You cannot switch employers or job roles without applying for a new visa unless explicitly allowed under your visa conditions. Some visas may allow additional paid work under certain conditions, such as the Creative Worker Visa, where supplementary work in the creative sector is permitted.

All temporary work visas include a condition that you cannot access public funds during your stay in the UK. This means you are not eligible for state benefits or housing assistance and must rely on your own financial resources.

Temporary work visas do not generally allow for long-term residency or settlement in the UK. You are expected to leave the UK once your visa expires, and staying beyond the permitted period can result in future visa applications being denied. Additionally, while you can travel outside the UK during your visa period, any time spent outside the country does not extend the duration of your visa.

Some temporary work visas allow you to bring dependents (such as a spouse or children) to the UK. These dependents will typically be granted the same visa duration as the main applicant and are subject to similar conditions.

 

3. Temporary Worker Visa Extensions & Switching

 

Extensions are possible for certain temporary work visas, such as the Creative Worker Visa and the Religious Worker Visa. To extend your visa, your sponsor must continue to be licensed, and you must still meet the original eligibility requirements. The extension application should be made before your current visa expires.

Switching to another visa category while in the UK is possible for some, but not all, temporary work visas. For instance, you might be able to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa if you meet the eligibility criteria and have a new job offer from a licensed sponsor. However, certain visas, such as the Seasonal Worker Visa, do not permit switching to another visa category within the UK. In these cases, you would need to leave the UK and apply for a different visa from your home country.

Temporary work visas do not typically lead directly to permanent residency or settlement in the UK. However, if you switch to a visa category that offers a pathway to settlement (such as the Skilled Worker Visa), you may eventually be able to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain after meeting the necessary requirements.

 

Section F: Rights and Responsibilities of Temporary Work Visa Holders

 

As a holder of a temporary work visa in the UK, you are granted specific rights that allow you to live and work in the country for a limited period. However, with these rights come responsibilities that you must adhere to in order to maintain your legal status and avoid any issues with UK immigration authorities.

As a temporary work visa holder, in most cases, you will be required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa application. This payment grants you access to the National Health Service for the duration of your stay. You can receive healthcare services without additional cost, although some services like prescriptions and dental care may require additional payments.

If you have children who accompany you as dependents, they may attend public (state-funded) schools in the UK, provided your visa allows dependents.

Temporary work visa holders generally do not have access to most public funds, such as unemployment benefits, housing benefits, or social security payments. You are expected to be self-sufficient during your stay.

You are free to travel in and out of the UK during the validity of your visa. However, time spent outside the UK does not extend your visa duration. It is important to ensure that your visa remains valid for re-entry into the UK after any international travel.

Some temporary work visas allow you to bring your spouse or partner and children under 18 to the UK as dependents. They will typically receive the same visa duration as you and may have the right to work (depending on the visa category) and study in the UK.

 

Table: Rights and Responsibilities of Visa Holders

Right	Details	Responsibility	Details
Right to Work	Work in the job specified in your CoS, unless exception applies	Adherence to Visa Conditions	Work only in the specified role and employer, with limited exceptions
Access to Healthcare (NHS)	Available after paying the IHS	No Access to Public Funds	Do not claim state benefits or housing support
Right to Bring Dependents	Allowed for most visa types, depending on the category	Reporting Changes in Circumstances	Update the Home Office on changes like address or employment
Travel In and Out of UK	Allowed while visa is valid	Maintaining Valid Documentation	Ensure your passport and visa remain valid during your stay

 

In most cases, you can only work in the job role or sector specified in your Certificate of Sponsorship. Engaging in work outside of these conditions or working for a different employer without obtaining a new visa is a violation of your visa terms and can result in visa cancellation or deportation.

You must leave the UK on or before your visa expiry date unless you have successfully applied for an extension or switched to another visa category. Overstaying your visa is a serious breach of UK immigration law and can affect your ability to return to the UK in the future.

You must not claim public funds, which include most social security benefits, housing assistance, or income support. You are expected to support yourself and any dependents financially during your stay.

If you move to a new address in the UK, you must inform the Home Office of your new address within a specified period, usually within 10 days of the move. If there are significant changes in your employment status, such as a change in job role, employer, or salary, you may need to report these changes to the Home Office and, in some cases, apply for a new visa. If your personal circumstances change, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, you may need to update the Home Office. If you have dependents on your visa, their status may also need to be updated.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you comply with all visa conditions throughout your stay. This includes adhering to the specific terms of your work visa, maintaining adequate health insurance if required, and ensuring your dependants also comply with their visa conditions.

You must also comply with all UK laws and regulations, not just those related to immigration. This includes laws related to criminal behaviour, driving, and other aspects of daily life. Violating UK laws can result in the cancellation of your visa and deportation.

 

Section G: Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence Requirements

 

Organisations in the UK will need to apply to become a licensed sponsor to employ foreign nationals under the temporary worker categories. To be eligible for a sponsor licence, there are a number of general requirements that must be met, as well as various route-specific requirements, depending on the category of worker that the employer is looking to recruit.

You can read our extensive guide to the Sponsorship Licence here >>

 

1. Sponsor Licence Eligibility Requirements

 

To be eligible for a Temporary Worker sponsor licence, the applicant organisation must be able to show, with reference to a number of supporting documents, that it is:

 

a. genuine and operating lawfully in the UK

b. trustworthy and capable of carrying out its sponsor duties

c. able to meet the requirements of the relevant route.

 

In assessing whether these requirements have been met, the Home Office will look at the history and background of the applicant organisation, including those involved in the day-to-day running of the business, as well as the key personnel named on the licence application. This will include any evidence of criminality and previous immigration violations or any other evidence that the organisation or its people are not honest, dependable and reliable.

The Home Office will also assess whether the organisation has suitable HR systems and recruitment practices in place to monitor sponsored workers and manage the sponsorship process. In many cases, the Home Office will carry out a pre-licence site visit to ensure that the applicant has the capability to discharge its duties as a sponsor under the rules, including its reporting and record-keeping obligations, and will not otherwise pose a threat to immigration control.

In addition to any route-specific requirements for sponsorship, the applicant organisation must have jobs that are suitable for sponsorship on the route in question and comply with either the National Minimum Wage Regulations or Working Time Regulations.

 

2. Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence Application Process

 

To apply for a Temporary Worker sponsor licence, the applicant organisation must complete an online application at GOV.UK and pay the relevant fee.

As part of the application process, the employer will need to submit a number of documents in support, including those specified in Appendix A of the sponsor guidance and for the specific route in question. In most cases, at least four documents or four combinations of documents must be submitted to meet the general requirements for a Temporary Worker sponsor licence, including any documents described as mandatory. As part of the licence application process, a number of individuals must also be nominated to fill the key personnel roles, including an Authorising Offer, Key Contact and Level 1 user.

The AO must be the most senior person within the applicant organisation responsible for recruiting migrant workers and ensuring that all sponsor duties are met. They will also be responsible for managing the sponsor licence application and signing and dating the submission sheet. The submission sheet, together with all documentation, must be submitted to the Home Office within no more than five working days of submitting the application.

The key contact will act as the main point of contact with the Home Office, whilst the Level 1 user will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the sponsor licence using the sponsorship management system. The authorising officer can act as both the key contact and Level 1 user named in the application.

Alternatively, different people can be appointed to these roles. Additionally, if the application for a Temporary Worker licence is approved by the Home Office, additional Level 1 users can subsequently be added, together with Level 2 users. A Level 2 user is someone authorised to use the Sponsorship Management System but with more restricted system access than a Level 1 user.

Once the application for a Temporary worker sponsor licence has been completed, the fee paid and supporting documentation submitted, a decision will usually be made by the Home Office within a period of 8 weeks. However, it can take longer for the Home Office to reach a decision if a pre-licence site visit is needed or additional documentation is requested.

If the application for a Temporary Worker licence is approved, and once the migrant worker has been assigned a valid Certificate of Sponsorship, that worker can apply for their visa.

You can read our extensive guide to the Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence here >>

 

Section H: Summary

 

UK temporary work visas allow foreign nationals to work in the United Kingdom for a specified, limited period. These visas cater to various sectors, including creative industries, charitable work, religious roles, seasonal employment, and government-authorised exchange programmes. Each visa type has specific eligibility criteria, and applicants must secure a job offer from a UK-based sponsor who is licensed by the Home Office. Employers must ensure they are compliant with sponsorship duties, including issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship and maintaining accurate records.

Key risks for employers include potential penalties if they fail to comply with sponsorship obligations, which could result in losing their sponsor licence. For applicants, the main considerations are ensuring they meet all visa-specific requirements, as errors or omissions can lead to delays or rejections. Misunderstanding or violating visa conditions, such as working outside the specified role, can have serious consequences, including visa revocation or future entry bans. Careful preparation and understanding of the responsibilities involved are crucial for both employers and applicants to ensure a successful and lawful employment experience in the UK.

 

Section I: Need Assistance?

 

DavidsonMorris are UK work visa specialists. For expert advice on temporary visa options to hire foreign nationals or to work in the UK, contact us.

 

Section J: Temporary Work Visa FAQs

 

What is a temporary work visa in the UK?
A temporary work visa in the UK allows foreign nationals to work in the UK for a limited period, typically tied to a specific job role or sector. These visas are intended for short-term employment and do not generally lead to permanent residency.

 

Who is eligible for a temporary work visa in the UK?
Eligibility depends on the specific visa type. Generally, you must have a job offer from a UK-based employer who is a licensed sponsor. You will also need a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer, proof of funds, and possibly other documents like proof of English proficiency or a TB test certificate.

 

Can I extend my temporary work visa?
Some temporary work visas, such as the Creative Worker Visa and Religious Worker Visa, can be extended if you continue to meet the eligibility criteria. However, other visas, like the Charity Worker Visa and Seasonal Worker Visa, do not allow extensions.

 

Can I switch to another visa category while in the UK?
In some cases, yes. For example, you may be able to switch to a Skilled Worker Visa if you meet the eligibility requirements and have a new job offer from a licensed sponsor. However, certain visas, like the Seasonal Worker Visa, do not permit switching while in the UK.

 

Can I bring my family with me on a temporary work visa?
Some temporary work visas allow you to bring dependents, such as a spouse or children under 18. They will typically receive the same visa duration as you and may have the right to work or study in the UK, depending on the visa category.

 

Do I have access to public funds while on a temporary work visa?
No, temporary work visa holders are generally not allowed to access public funds. This includes most social security benefits, housing assistance, and other state-funded support. You must be able to support yourself and any dependents financially during your stay in the UK.

 

What happens if I lose my job while on a temporary work visa?
If you lose your job, you must inform the Home Office and may need to leave the UK unless you can secure another job with a licensed sponsor and obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship. Your visa is tied to your specific job and employer, so changing jobs without updating your visa status can lead to legal issues.

 

What are the common reasons for visa rejection?
Common reasons for visa rejection include incomplete or incorrect documentation, insufficient proof of funds, failing to meet eligibility criteria, or discrepancies in the information provided. It’s important to carefully prepare your application and ensure all details are accurate.

 

Can I travel outside the UK on a temporary work visa?
Yes, you can travel in and out of the UK while your visa is valid. However, time spent outside the UK does not extend the duration of your visa. Ensure that your visa remains valid for re-entry into the UK after any international travel.

 

Section K: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)	A unique reference number issued by a licensed UK sponsor (employer) confirming your job offer, required for visa applications.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)	A fee paid by visa applicants to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
Licensed Sponsor	A UK-based employer or organisation authorised by the UK government to sponsor foreign workers for visas.
Temporary Work Visa	A visa allowing foreign nationals to work in the UK for a specified, limited period.
Dependants	Family members (such as a spouse or children under 18) who may accompany a visa holder to the UK.
Public Funds	State-provided benefits and support, such as social security payments, which visa holders are typically not allowed to access.
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)	A physical card issued to visa holders that contains their immigration status and biometric information.
Sponsor Licence	Authorisation granted to UK employers allowing them to issue Certificates of Sponsorship to foreign workers.
Visa Extension	The process of applying to extend the duration of an existing visa before it expires.
Switching Visa	The process of changing from one visa category to another while remaining in the UK.
Overstaying	Remaining in the UK beyond the expiry date of a visa without legal permission, which is a breach of immigration laws.
Right to Work	Legal authorisation granted to visa holders to work in the UK in the specific job role outlined in their visa.
National Health Service (NHS)	The publicly funded healthcare system of the UK, providing health services free at the point of use for residents and visa holders who have paid the IHS.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test	A medical test required for visa applicants from certain countries to ensure they do not have tuberculosis.
Immigration Adviser	A professional regulated by the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC) who provides advice and assistance with visa applications and immigration matters.
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI)	The division of the Home Office responsible for managing the UK’s visa system, including the processing of visa applications and enforcement of immigration laws.
Visa Application Centre (VAC)	A facility where visa applicants submit biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) and necessary documents as part of the visa application process.

 

Section L: Additional Resources

 

UK Government Visa and Immigration
https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration/work-visas
The official UK government page for work visas, offering detailed information on various visa categories, eligibility criteria, and application processes.

 

UK Visa Sponsorship for Employers
https://www.gov.uk/uk-visa-sponsorship-employers
A guide for UK employers on how to sponsor foreign workers, including details on obtaining a sponsor license and issuing Certificates of Sponsorship.

 

Immigration Health Surcharge
https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application
Information on the Immigration Health Surcharge, including how to calculate and pay the fee, which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service.

 

UK Visa Application Centres
https://www.gov.uk/find-a-visa-application-centre
A resource to locate UK visa application centres around the world, where you can submit your biometrics and documents as part of your visa application process.

 

Check if Your Employer is a Licensed Sponsor – Register of Licensed Sponsors
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/register-of-licensed-sponsors-workers
A searchable list of UK employers who are licensed to sponsor workers on various visa types, ensuring that your job offer is from a legitimate sponsor.