UK Charity Worker Visa (Temporary Work) – Tier 5 | Eligibility, Visa Application Process

The UK Charity Worker Visa (Temporary Work) – Tier 5 is a UK visa that allows individuals to come to the UK for unpaid voluntary work with a registered UK charity for up to 12 months. It is designed for those who wish to support charitable activities without financial compensation.

1. Overview

• Allows unpaid voluntary work for a UK-registered charity.
• Valid for up to 12 months or the time stated on the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) plus 14 days.
• No paid work is allowed, but personal savings or sponsor support can be used for living expenses.
• Dependents (partner and children) can apply to join the applicant.

2. Visa Type: Tier 5 (Temporary Work – Charity Worker)

• This visa falls under the Tier 5 Temporary Work category.
• It is not a route to permanent settlement in the UK.
• Applicants cannot switch to this visa from another visa within the UK.

3. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Charity Worker Visa (Tier 5), applicants must:

✅ Be 18 years or older.
✅ Have an official unpaid voluntary role with a UK charity that holds a Temporary Work sponsor license.
✅ Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the sponsoring charity.
✅ Have at least £1,270 in savings (unless the sponsor covers maintenance costs).
✅ Not have held a Charity Worker or Religious Worker visa in the past 12 months, unless they were outside the UK during that period.
✅ Provide a tuberculosis test certificate, if required based on the home country.

4. Visa Application Process

Step 1: Secure a Sponsorship
✅Find a UK charity with a valid sponsor license offering a voluntary role.

Step 2: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
✅The UK charity sponsor must issue a CoS, which includes a reference number needed for the visa application.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents
✅See the Required Documents section below.

Step 4: Apply Online
✅Apply through the UK Government website
✅Pay the visa fee (£259) and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS – £624 per year).

Step 5: Biometric Appointment
✅Attend a visa application center to submit fingerprints and a photograph.
✅Some applicants may use the UK Immigration: ID Check app for verification.

Step 6: Await a Decision
✅Standard processing takes about 3 weeks for applications outside the UK.

5. Required Documents

📌 Valid Passport (with at least one blank page).
📌 Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the UK charity.
📌 Proof of Funds (£1,270 in savings) (unless the sponsor certifies maintenance).
📌 TB Test Certificate (if applicable, based on country of residence).
📌 Proof of Relationship (if bringing dependents).

6. Processing Time

Standard processing: 3 weeks for applications from outside the UK.
Priority processing may be available for an additional fee.

7. How RKIMT Helps
RKIMT provides support for visa applications, including the UK Charity Worker Visa (Tier 5 Temporary Work).

✅ Finding a UK Charity Sponsor with a valid license.
✅ Step-by-Step Application Guidance to ensure accuracy.
✅ Document Preparation to meet all requirements.
✅ Financial Support Advice for meeting eligibility criteria.
✅ Fast-Track Processing Assistance to speed up the process.

For more details, Contact RKIMT

Final Thoughts

• Ensure your role is genuinely voluntary, as paid work is not permitted under this visa.
• Seek professional guidance from RKIMT or legal experts for a smooth process.
• Check the UK Government website regularly for updates.

Would you like help finding a UK charity sponsor or preparing your application? 😊