Tier-2 General for Skilled Workers

The Tier 2 General Visa is designed for skilled workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who have a job offer in the UK. This visa category requires applicants to have a Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer with a valid Tier 2 sponsorship licence. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the process, requirements, and conditions for a Tier 2 General Visa.

Tier-2 General for Skilled Workers

Key Features of the Tier 2 General Visa:

• Eligibility: Must have a job offer from a licensed UK employer and a Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Language Requirements: Need to meet English language requirements.
• Maintenance Funds: Must have savings of at least £945, unless maintenance is certified by the sponsor.

Application Process:

1. Certificate of Sponsorship: Essential to have this document which contains information about the role offered in the UK.
2. Application Timing: Can apply up to 3 months before the intended start date of employment in the UK.
3. Decision Timeline: Typically, decisions are made within 3 weeks.

Financial Requirements:

• Visa Fee: Varies based on the length and type of application. For up to 3 years, the fee is £610 outside the UK. For more than 3 years, the fee doubles.
• Healthcare Surcharge: Must also pay this surcharge as part of the application.

Duration and Stay:

• Maximum Stay: Up to 6 years, with the possibility to extend under certain conditions.
• Start Date: Must arrive up to 14 days before the start date listed on the Certificate of Sponsorship.

Work and Study Conditions:

• Primary Work: Must work in the job specified by the sponsor.
• Second Jobs: Allowed to take a second job in certain conditions, including in a shortage occupation or the same sector and profession.
• Study: Allowed as long as it does not interfere with the job.

Family Members:

• Dependants: Can bring family members (spouse and children under 18) as dependants.
• Financial Requirement for Dependants: Each dependant must have £630 available unless the sponsor certifies maintenance.

Extension and Switching:

• Extension: Possible within the total 6-year limit. Must still meet all requirements and have sponsorship.
• Switching: Can switch from another visa category within the UK under certain conditions.

Required Documents:

• Passport or travel ID.
• Bank statements showing required savings unless exempt.
• Proof of meeting English language requirements.
• Tuberculosis test results if from a country where this is required.
• Biometric information at a visa application centre.

Application Fees:

• Fees vary depending on the length of the visa and whether the job is on the shortage occupation list. Generally, the cost is higher for longer durations and for premium services.

Considerations:

• Applicants need to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements, including the salary threshold which must meet the appropriate rate for the job as stated in the Codes of Practice.
• It is crucial to maintain updated and accurate documentation, especially concerning the relationship with the sponsoring employer.

Conclusion:

The Tier 2 General Visa is a vital route for skilled workers looking to contribute to the UK’s workforce. It requires thorough preparation, adherence to the eligibility criteria, and an understanding of the responsibilities and rights once in the UK. This visa provides a pathway not only for professional growth but also for exploring long-term residency options in the UK if conditions are met.

A Guide to Tier 2 General Visa Requirements and Timelines 2020

Specialized UK Visa Guide for Professionals and Athletes

This collection of resources provides detailed insights into specific UK visa categories that cater to professionals, athletes, and religious ministers. Each article offers targeted advice and essential information for navigating the visa application process in these specialized fields.

1. Tier 2 Sportsperson Visa UK: Detailed information on the Tier 2 Sportsperson Visa, designed for professional athletes and sportspeople planning to work in the UK.
2. High Potential Individual Visa UK: Insights into the visa category for exceptionally talented graduates from top global universities looking to work in the UK.
3. Scale up Visa UK: An in-depth look at this new visa type for individuals with job offers from rapidly growing UK firms, facilitating their contribution to the UK’s economic growth.
4. UK Health Care Visa: Essential information for healthcare workers seeking employment opportunities in the UK, covering eligibility and application processes.
5. Tier 2 ICT Visa: Guidance on the Intra-Company Transfer Visa, which allows employees of multinational companies to relocate to their UK branches.
6. UK PPE Visa: Key details about the Permitted Paid Engagement Visa, ideal for professionals visiting the UK for short-term engagements.
7. T2 Minister of Religion Visa UK: Advice for religious figures applying for a Tier 2 work visa, outlining the requirements and application process.
8. International Sportsperson Visa: Information on visa options for internationally recognized athletes and coaches aiming to work in the UK.
9. Tier 2 Minister of Religion Visa: Comprehensive guidance for ministers and religious leaders seeking to enter the UK on a religious work visa.
10. Tier 2 Visa Statistics: Offers a deep dive into application and approval trends for Tier 2 visas, providing valuable statistical insights for applicants.

This guide is tailored to assist individuals in specialized fields and professions to understand their specific visa requirements and successfully navigate the UK visa application process.