Choosing the right UK visa

Making sure you’re eligible to work is the first thing you should do before moving to any country. It’s important that you get this sorted, or start the process, before making your move to ensure you aren’t stuck with no right to work. In the UK the visa process can take up to six months, so remember to apply in advance to make sure you can make that flight you’ve got your heart set on.

Applying for a UK visa firstly depends on your home country. If you’re not sure if you need a visa or not to come to the UK, use this government tool to find out.

What types of visas are there in the UK?

There are many different types of visas that you can apply for, each with their own unique application process and particular requirements.

A work permit and employment visa are two essential requirements if you want to work in the UK. Which type of work visa you need to apply for depends on the type of job you’ll be doing. To apply for certain types of visa (like Tier 2 visas), you must already have a job lined up. Your new employer will file for the work permit on your behalf, and you will only be able to work in this specific role. The Tier 5 Youth Mobility visa on the other hand, doesn’t require employment pre-organised, giving those immigrating to the UK on this visa a little more flexibility.

The main types of work visa in the UK are:

• Tier 1 (Exceptional talent). For those who are experts in a particular field. This can include the sciences, humanities, engineering, medicine, digital technology, and the arts. Visa length up to five years.
• Tier 2 (General): For those with skilled jobs that are sponsored by an organization. Visa length up to five years.
• Tier 2 (Health and care): For those with a job offer from the NHS. Visa length up to five years.
• Tier 2 (Intra-company transfer) For those working for a UK employer based overseas who have been made an offer to work in the UK. Visa length up to five years.
• Tier 2 (Minister of religion). For those who work for a sponsored faith community. Visa length up to three years.
• Tier 2 (Sportsperson). For elite athletes or coaches. Visa length up to three years.
• Tier 5 (Temporary worker). For sponsored temporary workers on an official exchange. Visa length up to two years.
• Tier 5 (Youth Mobility Scheme). For people aged 18-30 from certain countries around the world (Australia is 18-35). Visa length up to two years.
• UK Ancestry Visa. For those with ancestral roots to the UK. Visa length up to five years.
• Start-up Visa. For those who want to start a business and have enough money to support themselves. Visa length up to two years.

How to apply for a UK Visa

You need to apply for a visa online before you arrive in the UK. Along with a permit visa application form, you’ll need to provide the following documents as a part of your application process:

• Valid passport.
• Proof of financial means.
• Proof of English language fluency.
• Proof of payment of the NHS healthcare surcharge.

Getting your visa doesn’t need to be a scary process. Just do your research and make sure you have all of your documentation up to date. Good luck!