The United Kingdom offers a diverse cultural environment and a rich experience. Known for the dynamic city of London, the idyllic coastlines of Cornwall, and the winding landscapes of the Peak District, the UK offers a plethora of attractions.
The UK is not only known for its tourist attractions but also for business growth. It is one of the countries that the majority of Indians had preferred in the past to settle or work. However, the United Kingdom’s immigration system is known for its strict and selective nature.
In 2008 and 2010, a five-tier, points-based UK visa system was introduced to assess applicants across various criteria to identify eligible candidates for a Work Visa.
UK Visa Fees
Here’s an overview of the types of UK Visas, their validity, stay periods, entry types, and associated visa fees:
- 6 Months Short Term UK Visa
- Validity: 6 Months
- Stay Period: 6 Months
- Entry Type: Multiple Entry
- Visa Fees: INR 10,299/-
- 2 years Long Term UK Visa
- Validity: 2 Years
- Stay Period: 6 Months
- Entry Type: Multiple Entry
- Visa Fees: INR 34,649/-
- 5 years Long Term UK Visa
- Validity: 5 Years
- Stay Period: 6 Months
- Entry Type: Multiple Entry
- Visa Fees: INR 61,749/-
- 10 Years Long Term UK Visa
- Validity: 10 Years
- Stay Period: 6 Months
- Entry Type: Multiple Entry
- Visa Fees: INR 76,999/-
UK Work Permit
Obtaining a UK work permit is not a direct process; rather, it necessitates your UK-based employer to apply on your behalf. Work permits can be used by Entrepreneurs, Investors, and individuals with exceptional talent from foreign countries, especially those who are capable of making significant contributions to the UK’s growth and economy.
Professions that fall under this category include:
- Doctors (Physicians)/ Speciality
- Engineers
- Scientists
- Finance experts
- Innovators
- Entrepreneurs
- IT specialists
- and others
Types of UK Employment Permits
Various kinds of UK employment permits cater to specific circumstances:
- Tier 2 (General) Visa: Designed for those offered skilled jobs in the UK or non-EEA individuals with a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor (i.e., potential employer).
- Tier 1 (General) Visa: Allows individuals with ‘leave to remain’ in the UK to switch to this visa category.
- Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) Visa: Available to internationally recognized leaders in various fields or non-EEA individuals with exceptional talents.
- Overseas Business Representative visa: This visa is for individuals representing overseas companies setting up UK branches or employees of overseas media organizations on long-term assignments.
- Domestic Workers in a Private Household Visa: Intended for domestic workers in private households who meet specific eligibility criteria.
The UK Immigration Points-Based Assessment System
In the UK’s points-based system, applicants are selected based on factors such as educational qualifications, future annual earnings, employer sponsorship, English language skills, and self-provided funds. UK work visas require sponsorship from a UK-based employer, making it necessary to secure a suitable job and sponsorship before submitting their visa application.
Before applying for a UK work permit, ensure that you meet the following requirements:
- Having a confirmed job offer from a licensed UK employer who will be your sponsor.
- You need to have a Certificate of Sponsorship issued by your sponsoring employer.
- Pass the points-based assessment, which varies depending on the specific work permit category.
UK Visa Application Process
The UK work visa application processing time typically takes about three weeks from the date of submission. Applicants should be ready at least three months before their intended UK travel date to apply for a visa.
