Tier 2 - Sportsperson — How to Get a Visa for Coaches and Sportspersons

The Sponsored worker (Tier 2 Sportsperson) visa is for internationally established elite level sportspersons or coaches with a job offer in the United Kingdom. Applicants would be expected to make a significant contribution to the development of their chosen sport in the UK.

Applicants who are granted temporary residence under the Sponsored worker (Tier 2 Sportsperson) visa scheme are initially permitted to live and work in the UK for the duration of their employment for a maximum three (3) year period.

Minimum Visa Requirements and Entitlements

The basic requirement for this visa is to score a minimum of 70 points for attributes including sponsorship, English language and available maintenance (funds).

Elite sportspersons and coaches who are internationally established are eligible to apply under the Tier 2 (Sportsperson) category. Applicants are required to obtain endorsement from their sport's governing body to obtain sponsorship.

In the first instance, a prospective sponsor will apply to the UK Border Agency in order to be granted a licence. When successfully licensed, a sponsor can apply for a number of certificates of sponsorship, which they can then present to the people whom they intend to sponsor. Once a prospective employee has been allocated a certificate of sponsorship, he or she will be eligible to apply for UK entry clearance or leave to remain in the UK.

The Sponsored Worker (Tier 2 Sportsperson) visa is issued for an initial maximum period of three (3) years.

Upon successfully holding a Sponsored Worker (Tier 2 Sportsperson) for a total of five (5) years, individuals may be entitled to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Eligible dependants may also qualify to be included and upon obtaining the visa, may also work or study without any restrictions.