Creative Worker Visa
A creative worker is an individual engaged in the creative sector, such as an artist, performer, instrumentalist, or member of a cinematography team.
You must apply for a Temporary Work – Creative Worker visa if:
- you’ve been offered work in the UK as a creative worker
- you meet the other eligibility requirements
The International Sportsperson visa grants sportspersons the opportunity to work in the UK, replacing the previous T5 visa, which was known as the Temporary Worker – Creative and Sporting visa.
Sponsorship
To work in the UK, one must possess a certificate of sponsorship from an authorised sponsor, which is a prerequisite for applying to enter the country.
It is crucial that the tasks you undertake within the United Kingdom are directly aligned with the objectives and operations of the organisation that serves as your sponsor.
How long it takes
You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before the day you are due to start work in the UK. This date is listed on your certificate of sponsorship.
Getting a decision
Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within:
- 3 weeks, if you’re outside the UK
- 8 weeks, if you’re inside the UK
If you need to go to an appointment, you may be able to pay for a faster decision. How you do this depends on whether you’re outside the UK or inside the UK.
For more information on Creative Worker Visas, please get in contact where we would love to discuss further on how we could help you.
For more information on Creative Worker Visas, please get in contact where we would love to discuss further on how we could help you.
Learn MoreHow much it costs
You, your partner or children will each need to:
- pay the application fee
- pay the healthcare surcharge, which is usually £624 per year
- prove you have enough personal savings
Application fee
The application fee for each person applying is £259.
The fee is the same whether you’re applying from inside or outside the UK.
How long you can stay
You can come to the UK for a maximum of up to 12 months, or the time given in your certificate of sponsorship plus up to 28 days, whichever is shorter.
You may be able to extend your visa.
Your stay must start no more than 14 days before the start date on your certificate of sponsorship.
If you intend to work in the UK for 3 months or less, you may be able to use the Creative Worker visa concession instead of applying for the visa.
What you can and cannot do
You can:
- study (for some courses you’ll need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate)
- work for your sponsor in the job described in your certificate of sponsorship
- do a second job in the same sector and at the same level as your main job for up to 20 hours per week
- do a job on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list for up to 20 hours per week
- bring your partner and children with you as your ‘dependants’, if they’re eligible
You cannot:
- get public funds
- start your own business
Get in Touch
With years of experience working in UK immigration and Litigation law, our advisors can help you understand the process and take the right steps toward obtaining your goals. Get in touch today.