Religious Worker Visa UK
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A quick look
You can stay in the UK for a maximum of 24 months with a Religious Worker Visa UK.
Yes, this visa does need to be accompanied by a Sponsor Licence.
You are allowed to:
- Study (an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate may be required for some courses).
- Work for a sponsoring organisation in the job described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Have a second role in the same sector and at the same level as your main job for up to 20 hours per week.
- Do a job on the Skilled Worker Shortage Occupation List for up to 20 hours per week.
- Bring your partner and/or children with you, if eligible.
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You are not allowed to:
- Access any public funds/benefits.
Religious Worker Visa UK
If you are a foreign national who wishes to do religious work in a non-pastoral role or religious order, then you will need to apply for a Religious Worker Visa.
This visa should not be confused with the T2 Minister of Religion Visa, which allows people to come to the UK and work in a pastoral role. For example, as a minister. Â
Requirements
The visa requires you to demonstrate that you:
- Already have a certificate of sponsorship reference number.
- Have enough money to support yourself in the UK – usually at least £1,270, though some people are exempt.
- Be at least 18 years of age when you apply.
Certificate of Sponsorship
A Certificate of Sponsorship is a reference number that holds information about the job and your own personal details. It is not an actual certificate or paper document. It is a number that corresponds to the job you have been offered.
As well as the reference number, your sponsor will also give you information to help you to apply for the visa; for example, how much you will be paid. This helps to prove you meet the job and salary requirements for the visa.
How long can you stay?
With the Religious Worker Visa, you can come to the UK for a maximum of up to 24 months, or 28 days after the time given in your certificate of sponsorship, whichever is shorter. You may be able to extend your visa if you want to stay longer.
Also, you can enter the UK up to 14 days before you begin your job.Â
How much does a Religious Worker Visa cost?
The application fee for each person applying is £298.
The fee is fixed, and does not change based on whether you apply from inside, or outside the UK.
You, along with any family members that come with you, will each need to pay the healthcare surcharge, which is currently £1,035 per year, in addition to the base fee.
Extra Information
With the Religious Worker Visa, you are able to:Â
- Study
- Work for your sponsor in the job described in your certificate of sponsorship
- Do a second job in the same sector and at the same level as your main job for up to 20 hours per week
- Do a job on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list for up to 20 hours per week
- Bring your partner and children with you as your ‘dependants’, if they are eligible
Ready for assistance?
If you have any questions about the changes or want legal advice, contact
Woodcock Law & Notary Public today. Contact us by phone on +44 (0)20 7712 1705 or
by email at info@woodcocklaw.co.uk.
