UK Tier 2 Working Visa: A Comprehensive Guide

Are you considering moving to the UK for work? The Tier 2 Working Visa is a popular choice for non-EEA nationals looking to work in the UK. This visa category is reserved for skilled workers who have a job offer in the UK, and the employer is sponsoring the visa application. In this article, we’ll walk you through the application process for a Tier 2 Working Visa, including requirements, processing times, and frequently asked questions.

Eligibility Requirements for a UK Tier 2 Working Visa

Before you can apply for a Tier 2 Working Visa, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. Here are the key criteria you need to fulfill:

Job offer from a UK employer: You must have a valid job offer from a UK employer that holds a Tier 2 sponsor license.

Sponsorship Certificate: Your employer must issue a Sponsorship Certificate, confirming that the job offer is genuine and meets the required skill level.

English Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate your English language proficiency by passing an approved English language test or holding a relevant degree.

Salary: The job offer must meet the minimum salary requirement for your occupation. This requirement varies depending on the type of work you’ll be doing, but the minimum salary is usually £30,000.

Qualifications: In addition to meeting the minimum salary requirement, you must also meet the required qualifications for the job.

Application Process for a UK Tier 2 Working Visa

Once you have a job offer from a UK employer and meet the eligibility requirements, you can begin the application process for a Tier 2 Working Visa. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Get a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer

Once your employer is happy to sponsor your visa application, they will issue you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). This is a unique reference number that you’ll need to include in your visa application.

Step 2: Apply online for your visa

You need to apply for your visa online and submit some documents along with your application. Some of the key documents you’ll need to submit include:

– Passport or travel document
– Evidence of your English language proficiency
– Proof of your finances
– Certificate of Sponsorship

Step 3: Biometric appointment

You’ll need to attend a biometric appointment to have your fingerprints and photograph taken. This is a quick and straightforward process.

Step 4: Decision on your visa application

Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive a decision on your visa application within the processing time. The processing time for a Tier 2 Working Visa is usually around 3-4 weeks. However, you can pay extra to get a faster decision.

Frequently Asked Questions about UK Tier 2 Working Visa

Q: How long can I stay in the UK on a Tier 2 Working Visa?

A: You can stay in the UK for up to five years on a Tier 2 Working Visa. After five years, you can apply for settlement in the UK.

Q: Can I bring my family with me on a Tier 2 Working Visa?

A: Yes, if you have a Tier 2 Visa, you can bring your spouse and children under the age of 18 with you to the UK. They will need to apply for a dependent visa.

Q: Can I change employers while on a Tier 2 Working Visa?

A: You can change employers while on a Tier 2 Working Visa, but you will need to have a new Certificate of Sponsorship from your new employer, and in some cases, you may need to apply for a new visa.

Q: Can I apply for settlement in the UK on a Tier 2 Working Visa?

A: Yes, after five years of continuous residence in the UK, you can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK.

Q: Is there a limit to the number of Tier 2 Working Visas that can be issued each year?

A: Yes, there is an annual limit on the number of Tier 2 Working Visas that can be issued each year. The current limit is 20,700 per year, divided into monthly allocations.

Conclusion

The Tier 2 Working Visa is a popular visa category for non-EEA nationals looking to work in the UK. To apply for this visa, you need a valid job offer from a UK employer, sponsorship certificate, English language proficiency, and meet the minimum salary requirement and qualifications for the job. The application process usually takes around 3-4 weeks, and you can stay in the UK for up to five years on a Tier 2 Working Visa.