UK Temporary Worker Charity Visa
UK Temporary Worker Charity Visa (Formerly Tier 5 Charity Worker Visa)
The UK Temporary Worker Charity Worker Visa allows individuals to travel to the UK to undertake voluntary work for a registered UK charity. This visa is intended for unpaid voluntary roles and does not permit paid work. It is a short-term visa under the Temporary Worker (T5) route and does not lead to settlement in the UK.
What is the UK Temporary Worker Charity Worker Visa?
The UK Charity Worker Visa is designed for individuals who want to come to the UK to carry out unpaid voluntary work with a UK charitable organisation. The visa is temporary, and applicants must have a confirmed sponsorship from a registered UK charity before applying.
This visa does not allow for paid employment or activities that a salaried worker would otherwise fill.
Who Can Apply for a UK Charity Worker Visa?
To be eligible, you must:
- Be 18 years or older.
- Have a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK charity registered as a Home Office licensed sponsor.
- Be coming to the UK to do voluntary work that directly contributes to the charity’s mission.
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself without claiming public funds.
- Be able to prove your intention to leave the UK after your visa expires.
This visa is not for:
- Paid employment, even if with a charity.
- Internships or work experience placements.
- Long-term voluntary work leading to permanent residence.
How Long Can You Stay on a UK Charity Worker Visa?
- The visa is valid for up to 12 months or the duration of the CoS, whichever is shorter.
- You can enter the UK up to 14 days before your job starts.
- Extensions are not possible under this route.
- You must leave the UK when your visa expires unless switching to another visa type (if eligible).
What You Can and Cannot Do on a UK Charity Worker Visa
You can:
- Volunteer for a UK registered charity in an unpaid role.
- Take on a second voluntary role with another charity.
- Study (some restrictions apply).
- Travel in and out of the UK during your visa period.
You cannot:
- Receive any payment or financial compensation for your work.
- Take up paid employment (even within a charity).
- Claim public funds or benefits.
- Extend this visa or switch to a Skilled Worker Visa while in the UK.
Sponsorship Requirements for UK Charities
Your UK charity employer must:
- Be registered as a licensed sponsor with the Home Office.
- Assign you a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) before you apply.
- Ensure that your role is unpaid and voluntary.
- Fulfil sponsorship duties, including reporting changes in your role.
Charities that offer paid roles for international workers should use the Skilled Worker Visa route instead.
Required Documents for a UK Charity Worker Visa
To apply a Charity Worker Visa for the UK, you must provide:
- A valid passport (with at least one blank page).
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number from your UK sponsor.
- Bank statements or financial proof to show you can support yourself.
- TB test certificate, if required for your country.
If your documents are not in English or Welsh, you must provide a certified translation.
How to Apply for a UK Charity Worker Visa
Step 1: Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Your UK charity must issue a CoS before you apply.
Step 2: Check if You Can Use the UK Immigration: ID Check App
Some applicants do not need to attend a visa application centre and can verify their identity using the UK Immigration: ID Check app.
You can use the app if:
- You are applying from outside the UK.
- You hold a biometric passport from an eligible country.
If eligible, you will be prompted to use the app during the online application process.
Step 3: Apply Online
- Complete your application through the official UK government website.
- Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Step 4: Verify Your Identity
If you cannot use the UK Immigration: ID Check app, you must book an appointment at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to:
- Provide fingerprints and a photograph (biometric information).
- Submit any additional required documents.
Step 5: Await a Decision
- Standard processing time: 3 weeks.
- Priority processing (optional): 5 working days for an extra £500.
Once approved, you will receive:
- A digital status if you used the ID Check app.
- A visa vignette in your passport if you applied via a VAC.
UK Charity Worker Visa Fees and Costs
Visa Application Fee:
- £319
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
- £1,035 per year
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Fee:
- Paid by the UK employer (£55 per worker)
The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) does not apply to this visa.
How Immtell Can Help
Applying for a UK Charity Worker Visa requires careful preparation to ensure compliance with Home Office requirements. Immtell provides expert support to help:
- UK charities obtain a Temporary Worker Sponsor Licence.
- Charity workers complete their visa application accurately.
- Ensure roles meet Home Office eligibility requirements.
- Assist with visa compliance and legal support.
Secure Your Charity Worker Visa for the UK
Get expert guidance for your UK Charity Worker Visa application and ensure a straightforward process for both volunteers and sponsoring charities.
Get expert guidance for your UK Charity Worker Visa application and ensure a straightforward process for both volunteers and sponsoring charities.
Further Reading
The UK Immigration Process: A Guide for Newcomers
Your Essential Guide to Navigating the UK Immigration Process with Confidence
What is the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK?
Your Guide to the Skilled Worker Visa in the UK: Meeting Eligibility and Navigating Compliance
Guide to Successfully Obtaining a UK Work Visa in 2025
How to Obtain a Work Visa for the UK in 2025
