Tier-5 (Temporary Worker)

Sponsored Temporary No ILR

Short-term UK work routes via licensed sponsors — **do not normally lead to settlement**.

Tier-5 (Temporary Worker) covers several sub-routes (e.g., Creative Worker, Charity Worker, Religious Worker, International Agreement, Government Authorised Exchange, Seasonal). A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is required for the relevant category.

Sub-routes (examples)
Creative Worker Charity Worker Religious Worker International Agreement Govt Authorised Exchange Seasonal Worker
  • Duration: typically up to 12–24 months (varies by route)
  • Dependants: allowed in many sub-routes; not in Seasonal Worker
  • Processing: around 3 weeks from outside the UK (can vary)
Eligibility
Licensed sponsor
Offer from a Home Office–licensed sponsor in the relevant sub-route.
Valid CoS
Certificate of Sponsorship outlining the role/activities and dates.
Genuine role & permitted activities
Your work must match what’s allowed under that sub-route.
Maintenance
Funds may be required unless certified by your sponsor.
English
Usually not required for most Tier-5 sub-routes.
TB/other checks (if applicable)
Route- and country-specific requirements may apply.
Fees & Processing
Visa fee
Varies

Depends on the sub-route and application location (inside/outside UK).

Immigration Health Surcharge
£1,035 per year

Payable for most sub-routes (exceptions may apply).

Priority options
Optional

Priority/Super Priority may be available for additional fees.

SubmissionBiometricsDecision ~ ~3 weeks (outside UK)
How it works
1
Sponsor & CoS

Secure a role/placement with a licensed sponsor in the relevant sub-route; receive a Certificate of Sponsorship.

2
Apply & Biometrics

Submit your online application, pay fees & IHS (if applicable), and provide biometrics (or use the app).

3
Decision & Start

Processing is typically around 3 weeks from outside the UK. Start work only after permission is granted.

Work rights & Family
Work rights
  • Work in the sponsored role/activities only (limited supplementary work may apply)
  • No ILR: Route does not usually count toward settlement
  • Switching into other routes may be possible if you meet the rules
Family
  • Dependants allowed in many sub-routes
  • Not allowed in Seasonal Worker
  • Maintenance funds apply unless the sponsor certifies
Documents (Typical)
ItemDetails
PassportValid travel document
Certificate of SponsorshipIssued by your licensed sponsor, with details of role/activities
Evidence of fundsMaintenance unless your sponsor certifies on the CoS
TB certificateIf required based on your country of residence
Additional route itemse.g., invitation letters, agreements, portfolio (creative), etc.
FAQs

No. Tier-5 routes are temporary and generally do not count toward ILR. You may later switch to a qualifying route (e.g., Skilled Worker) if eligible.

In many sub-routes yes, but not in Seasonal Worker. Check the rules for your category.

Usually not required for most Tier-5 sub-routes.

Applications made from outside the UK are typically processed in about 3 weeks, though times vary.

Yes. All Tier-5 sub-routes require a valid CoS from a Home Office–licensed sponsor.

Let’s Get in Touch

How we can help you
to acheive your goals.

Let’s Talk!