UK International Sportsperson Visa (T2)

Guide to the UK International Sportsperson Visa (T2)

The UK International Sportsperson Visa is a unique pathway for elite sportspeople and coaches, whose presence in the UK would significantly contribute to their respective sports, to live and work in the UK. It allows qualified individuals to partake in the UK’s vibrant sports scene.

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Eligibility and Requirements

Applicants for the International Sportsperson Visa must demonstrate that they are internationally established at the highest level in their sport and that their employment will significantly contribute to the development of that sport at the highest level in the UK. An endorsement from the sport’s governing body is also required.

Your sport’s governing body recognises you as being an elite sportsperson or qualified coach at the highest international level.

You can/have obtained endorsement from your sports governing body.

You must meet the English language requirement of CEFR level A1 in speaking and listening or be from an ‘English-speaking country’ if you are applying to stay in the UK for more than 12 months.

You must obtain sponsorship from an employer registered as Home Office International Sportsperson sponsor. Upon sponsorship, you will be issued a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), like an online UK work permit.

You must have held £1,270 in savings for 28 days before the date of application, or an A-rated Home Office sponsor may certify that they will provide this on the CoS. Further funds must be held for each dependant family member applying.

FAQs

How long will the International Sportsperson visa be valid for?

International Sportsperson work visas are usually granted for an initial period of either up to 3 years or up to 5 years, this usually reflects the duration indicated on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) assigned to you.

Can you extend a International Sportsperson work visa?

If your International Sportsperson sponsorship continues, it is possible to apply for visa extensions from within the UK indefinitely.

Can you switch into this visa from within the UK?

It is possible to apply to switch visa category from within the UK into this visa type, if you are not currently in the UK holding one of the following visa types:

Visitor visa
Short-Term Student visa
Parent of a Child visa
Seasonal Worker visa
Domestic Worker visa
Any Discretionary visa

Please however note that you may still need to meet the requirement to have worked for your employer outside of the UK for the required period, unless exempt.

Do UK International Sportsperson visas lead to ILR?

Following 5 years continuous residence, you may qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) in the UK, effectively permanent residence providing all the requirements are met at that time.

Can you bring your family as dependents?

Spouses or partners and children under the age of 18 may apply for visas to accompany you to the UK as your ‘dependants’. Your spouse or partner should be permitted to work.

Where should you apply for a International Sportsperson visa?

It is permitted to switch into the International Sportsperson visa type from within the UK if you were last granted a visa under certain visa categories. In all other circumstances, initial International Sportsperson visa applications must be from abroad, either from your country of nationality or legal residence.

How long does it take for the visa to be processed?

UKVI aim to process visas as follows:

Visa applications submitted outside of the UK:

Standard processing: 15 working days
Priority Service processing: 5 working days

Visa applications submitted inside the UK:

Standard processing: 8 weeks
Priority Service processing: 5 working day

Important: UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) do not guarantee processing times and delays do occur. We advise that you do not book any non refundable travel until your visa has been approved and your work visa is in your possession. Priority services can be suspended without notice and may not be available at the time of application.

How much does the visa cost?

The UKVI application fee is as follows:

Applying outside of the UK:

Visa up to 12 months duration: £298; or
Visa up to 3 years duration: £719.

Applying inside of the UK:

Visa up to 12 months duration: £298; or
Visa up to 3 years duration: £827.

In addition, you will need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) which is £1,035 per year of the visa duration.

Our professional fee will depend on the level of service you require.

Pricing

At Immtell, we recognise the unique aspirations and challenges international athletes and sports professionals face. To support your journey in obtaining an International Sportsperson Visa, we’ve developed two targeted service packages, each designed to cater to different needs within the application process.

🌟 Full End-to-End Support: Our all-inclusive package provides extensive assistance throughout your visa application. From initial eligibility checks to the final submission, our team of experts ensures a seamless and thorough approach, focusing on the specific requirements of sports professionals to maximise the chances of a successful application.

📝 Application Review and Feedback: Ideal for those who have prepared their application but seek an expert’s eye for detail, this service involves a comprehensive review of your completed application. We offer detailed feedback and recommendations, enhancing your application’s strength and compliance with the specific criteria for sports visas.

💡 Clear, Tailored Pricing: Understanding the financial considerations in your professional journey, we offer transparent pricing for our services. This ensures you understand the costs involved, helping you make an informed decision that suits your budget.

📘 Looking for More Information? Our FAQ section provides additional insights into the International Sportsperson Visa process and other common queries.

📞 Start Your Application with Expert Guidance: Whether you need full end-to-end support or a professional review of your application, our services are tailored to meet your unique requirements. Contact us to discuss how we can assist in making your visa application process as smooth and successful as possible.

Immtell's Typical Professional Fees

£ 1,500 + VAT

Eligibility assessment
CoS (Certificate of Sponsorship) drafting and assigning
Advice on English language and TB test requirements (if applicable)
Application preparation and online submission
Appointment booking
Responding to queries from the Home Office
Review of issued documents
Post-arrival Biometric Residence Permit accuracy check

Best Value

£ 500 + VAT

Specialist review of your prepared application
Assess application against the relevant rules and legislations
Provide feedback and recommendations for improvement (if applicable)

Understanding the Application Process

Applying for an International Sportsperson Visa involves multiple steps, including securing an endorsement, obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship, and completing the visa application form. Each step requires attention to detail and compliance with UK immigration regulations.

Immtell: Your Companion in Your Visa Journey

Navigating the UK visa application process can be challenging. With Immtell, you are not alone. We provide expert guidance and assistance at each step of the visa application process, ensuring a smooth and successful journey.

Why Immtell?

Our experienced team of immigration experts can provide invaluable insight and assistance in your visa application process. With a deep understanding of UK immigration laws and requirements, we work to simplify the process and increase the likelihood of a successful application.