The United Kingdom is a vibrant country rich in history and culture, offering numerous opportunities for skilled professionals around the world. For those looking to embark on their professional journey in the UK, the Tier 2 visa provides a fantastic gateway. This blog aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Tier 2 visa category, highlighting its features, requirements, and the process involved, ensuring you are well-prepared for your move to the UK.
What is the Tier 2 Visa?
The Tier 2 visa is designed for skilled workers from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland who have a job offer in the UK. It is part of the UK’s points-based system, which aims to attract professionals who can contribute significantly to the UK economy. This visa category is crucial for employers in the UK who wish to fill a gap in their workforce with non-EEA nationals if they cannot find a suitable candidate within the UK or EEA.
Types of Tier 2 Visas
The Tier 2 visa category is subdivided into several types, each catering to specific employment circumstances:
- Tier 2 (General): This is the most common route, designed for skilled workers with a job offer in the UK. Applicants must have an offer from a licensed sponsor and pass a points-based assessment.
- Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer): For employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to a UK branch. This includes two sub-categories: Long-term Staff and Graduate Trainee.
- Tier 2 (Minister of Religion): For those who are offered a position within a faith community in the UK.
- Tier 2 (Sportsperson): For elite sportspeople and coaches who are recognized as being at the highest level of their sport.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Tier 2 visa, applicants must satisfy specific criteria:
- Job Offer: You must have a valid job offer from a UK employer who holds a Tier 2 sponsorship license.
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Your employer must provide you with a certificate of sponsorship—a unique reference number that holds details about the job and your personal details.
- Salary Threshold: The job must pay an appropriate salary. As of 2021, this is typically at least £25,600 per year, or the appropriate rate for the job offered, whichever is higher.
- English Language Requirement: Applicants must prove their knowledge of English, either by passing an approved English language test or by having an academic qualification that was taught in English and is recognized by UK NARIC as being equivalent to a UK bachelor’s degree or higher.
Application Process
Applying for a Tier 2 visa involves several steps:
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship from your employer.
- Visa Application: Complete the online visa application form, including the payment of the visa fee and the healthcare surcharge.
- Documentation: Submit necessary documents, including your passport, proof of English language proficiency, bank statements to show you have enough funds to support yourself, and the Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Biometrics: Provide your fingerprints and a photograph at a visa application center.
- Visa Decision: Wait for the decision on your visa application, which typically takes about three weeks.
Living and Working in the UK
Once you have your Tier 2 visa, you can live and work in the UK for the duration of your sponsorship, up to a maximum of five years and 14 days, or the time given on your certificate of sponsorship plus one month, whichever is shorter. You can also bring family members with you as your dependents.
Conclusion
The Tier 2 visa is an excellent opportunity for skilled workers to grow their careers in a globally competitive environment like the UK. While the process may seem daunting, proper preparation and understanding of the requirements can ease your transition. As the UK continues to value and attract global talent, ensuring compliance with the visa regulations will smooth your path to a rewarding career in the United Kingdom.
