Do you need to get a work permit in the UK, but don’t have an offer of employment? If so, this post will show you how to get that permit without having that job offer in hand yet. Click the link below to apply:
First, I’ll talk about the different types of work permits and what they entail. Then, I’ll talk about the application process as well as any costs involved.
SEE: Studying Abroad Advantages and Disadvantages
What is A Tier 2 Visa?
The Tier 2 visa is a temporary work visa that allows you to enter and work in Great Britain for up to five years, with opportunities for renewal.
It’s open to skilled workers from countries outside of Europe (and their dependents), including Australia, Canada, Japan, Hong Kong, and South Africa. Since 2017, it has been split into two different categories:
The Tier 2 General Visa is open to those looking for any type of employment within certain fields, and The Tier 1 Exceptional Talent Visa is reserved specifically for those individuals that are pursuing extraordinary talents (eg. award-winning scientists or athletes).
If you’re interested in applying through one of these categories then you’ll need very specific documents and qualifications; consult with an immigration attorney near you if you’re interested.
Do I Need A Sponsorship From an Employer?
Do you need sponsorship from an employer or are you eligible for self-sponsorship? Sponsorship is basically a work permit that allows you to work legally and long-term in Britain. If you’re planning on coming to England on vacation, then getting a tourist visa should be sufficient.
But if you want to find employment, or even set up your own business, then permanent residence is what will allow it. Self-sponsorship (self-petitioning) means that you don’t need any sort of sponsorship; it just requires paperwork and some time before your permit is approved.
Most self-sponsored applications are approved within six months. Do you know what category applies to your situation?
Is There Any Other Way to Apply for a UK Work Visa?
If you’re currently outside of the UK and your only goal is to come over here, work and then leave, there are other options available. If you don’t have a job offer but have friends or family who can vouch for you, for example, you might be able to apply for a Tier 5 Youth Mobility visa.
These visas allow people between the ages of 18 and 30 (inclusive) from select countries to spend two years working in any business that doesn’t fall under an exclusion list; your employer doesn’t need to be listed on Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs’ list of Licensed Sponsors.
The Right Time To Apply For A UK Work Visa
The first step to getting any visa is figuring out when it’s appropriate for you. Applying too early can mean paying unnecessary fees and filling out extra paperwork that you won’t need later.
On the other hand, applying too late can be costly, and stressful and risk your chances of landing your desired job. To make sure you hit just that sweet spot, do some research on average processing times for different visas.
If it takes three months for an employment application with supporting documents to be processed—then take into account when employers start hiring each year.
Tips For Your Application Form
If you’re not currently living and working in England or Scotland, then your application form will be called an extension of stay. You’ll need to prove that you have enough money for your living expenses and travel home (this is known as ‘sufficient funds’).
The amount you need will vary depending on where you are from. If you’ve got lots of money saved up then it’s worth bearing in mind that if you do lose your job and can’t support yourself, Home Office policy is that it’s better for them if people go home and claim unemployment benefits rather than staying on without any means of support.
