Visas

If you are from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland and have been invited to the UK to work for a foreign government or as a private servant in a diplomatic household then you will need an Tier 5 International Agreement Visa.

Before applying, you must be in possession of a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed employer. The work you are coming to do in the UK must relate to the work of your sponsor.

If accepted, you will be notified within 3 weeks. You can apply for your visa up to 3 months before your start date, as shown on your certificate.

The cost of applying for a Tier 5 International Agreement Visa depends on your situation, where you are from, how you apply and how many dependants you have coming to the UK with you.

Your Tier 5 International Agreement Visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to 2 years. In some cases, you may only be able to stay for 6 months in any 12 month period, or up until the date shown on your certificate of sponsorship. The final decision will come down to which ever is shorter.

You will be permitted to enter the UK 14 days before the start date shown on your certificate.

You are not permitted to receive public funds. For example, housing benefits or to start work before you are in receipt of your visa.

You may study and work for your sponsor as shown on your certificate. You are permitted to take on a second job in the same sector for up to 20 hours per week. If it is for a different sector then it must be because there are a shortage of UK workers.

Family members may travel to the UK with you. Contact our Immigration experts today.