Understanding UK Work Visa Types

Over 3.5 million foreigners work in the UK. That exceeds several nations’ populations! The UK attracts expats due to its diversified options, ease of working in English, and big number of worldwide enterprises. Since there are so many chances, there are various UK work visas. These are the most prevalent, along with application advice.

Commonwealth Ancestry Visa

The Commonwealth Ancestry Visa is for Commonwealth nationals. People whose grandparents were born in the UK are eligible. It also applies to Commonwealth nationals whose grandparents were born in Ireland before 31 March 1922.  This visa lets you work and reside in the UK for a while. No work visa is needed, and you may roam freely. This visa has unique documentation. You need birth and marriage documents to verify your background.

Tier 2 Visas

Tier 2 visas, sometimes known as long-term work visas, are used by most UK workers. UK intra-company transferees, religious leaders, and athletes fall under Tier 2. Most non-EU workers need a General Work Visa.

The Tier 2 General visa is for qualified individuals with employment offers. To apply, you need an employer sponsorship certificate. Tier 2 General visas allow 5 years and 14 days in the UK. You may enter the UK 14 days before your job contract starts, giving you time to locate lodgings and settle in.

Standard Visitor Visa vs. Tier 2

The UK Standard Visitor Visa superseded various visas, notably the Business Visitor Visa. This visa is for business meetings, conferences, training, research, financing, and other business-related activities in the UK. Unlike the Tier 2 General Visa, the bearer cannot work in the UK. The duration is likewise shorter. The Standard Visitor Visa is usually valid for 6 months. Some exclusions include a 12-month stay for scholarly researchers.

What is Tier 5 Working Holiday Visa?

Tier 5 visas, also known as temporary work visa, are for temporary workers. This comprises philanthropic, artistic, athletic, and religious endeavor. It also covers 18-to-30-year-olds seeking working vacations.

Youth Mobility Scheme offers working holiday permits. The number of visas awarded annually is limited. Travel and work short-term and seasonally with this visa. Unlike other visas, you don’t have to save enough to sustain yourself before leaving. The visa application price is £244.

You may apply six months before traveling, compared to three months for most visas. Most decisions are taken in 15 days.

Options for Entrepreneurs

Moving to the UK to start a company requires a Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa. This Innovator visa has rigorous restrictions. You should show your company strategy, £50,000 in investment money, and UK savings to sustain yourself. The bearer of this visa cannot work elsewhere. You can only run your own company.

Discover the promise of the Innovator and Startup Visa, opening the doors for entrepreneurs in the UK. QC Immigration acts as your trusted partner, offering in-depth expertise and support for those seeking to launch or deepen their business projects in the UK.

The cost of a UK work visa

A UK visa’s charge depends on your nationality and visa type. Tier 2 visas cost £610. Tier 2 visas in skilled labor shortage fields cost £464.

Besides visa fees, you must pay health insurance. The cost depends on your visa type, length of stay, home country, and more. It costs several hundred British pounds to renew your visa annually. 

As with other visa applications, applying early is best. You may apply for a UK work visa three months in advance. Applications are handled by your local British Embassy or High Commission. Processing takes roughly three weeks, however certain nationalities need longer.