UK Tier 2 Visa: Application Process and Requirements

Are you an experienced worker seeking employment in the United Kingdom? If you are an experienced worker from a country which is outside of the European Economic Area and wish to apply for work in the United Kingdom, then you will almost certainly need to apply for a Tier 2 visa.

This visa category enables employers to hire talent whose skill is hard to come by locally, or the few who possess the talent have asked for an exorbitant price beyond the employer’s reach.

However, it must be said that at first sight, the actual process of applying can look challenging. This guide is designed to demystify the most important stipulations and help you navigate through the steps to get this much-sought visa.

What is the Tier 2 Visa?

What do you know about the Tier 2 Visa? But in the first instance, you have to know what the Tier 2 Visa is, to find out how to apply for the Visa, and what papers are needed.

The Tier 2 visa or the General Work Visa is classified for non-EEA citizens, securing skilled employment with a certified UK employer. This visa category includes the Tier 2 (General) and the Tier 2 (Intra-Company Transfer) visas and the Tier 2 (Minister of Religion) visas.

Eligibility Criteria/Requirements for Tier 2 Visa

It is important to determine whether one is suitable for the Tier 2 visa before going through the application process for the visa. The primary requirements include:

1. Job Offer: You need to have a standing job offer from an employer in the United Kingdom and the job must be in a skilled occupation and the salary you have to earn must also meet the prescribed amount.
2. Sponsorship: There are requirements that your prospective employer has to meet under the immigration system in the United Kingdom and one of them is that he or she must be licensed.
3. English Language Proficiency: You have to provide evidence of your proficiency in the English language to fulfill certain criteria.
4. Maintenance Funds: You should also have enough money for yourself and any relatives that you have with you to support yourself in the UK.

How to Apply for a Tier 2 Visa in the United Kingdom

Now that you know what you need to do to qualify for a Tier 2 Visa, you need to know the process of applying for the visa. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship

Your UK employer is required to provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is simply a reference number that your employer will award you to indicate his or her intention to sponsor you.

Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents

Ensure that you have assembled all important documents including the passport, educational certificates, English proficiency test score reports, and proof of financing.

Step 3: Fill in the Online Application

It is necessary to go to the official site of the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and fill out the online application form. Make sure that all the information provided is accurate and corresponds to the documents that you provide as evidence.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

You will be required to make payment of the visa fee depending on your situation, the amount differs as well. The official UKVI website contains information on when fees may increase or change, but the fees themselves are indicated on the UKVI site.

Step 5: Attend a Biometric Appointment

During the application, you may be required to submit to a biometric appointment that involves capturing fingerprints and a digital photograph taken from you.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

After completing these steps, you may forward your application, with the necessary documents, to the UKVI for further evaluation.

UK Tier 2 Visa Processing Time and Decision

The time taken to process an application in the Tier 2 category is not static. The timeframe will depend on the center but generally, the UKVI strives to process an application in not more than three weeks from the date the application was received. They do not take as long as one would normally expect, but it is important to realize that complicated matters may require more time to process.

Once the UKVI receives your application, they will go through it and write you a letter to tell you about their decision. If this is granted you will receive a visa vignette (sticker) in the passport which will then permit entry to the UK and collect the Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) upon arrival.

Additional Considerations

Here are other things that one needs to put into consideration when applying for a Tier 2 Visa in the United Kingdom.

• Dependents: If you are planning for your family members should join you in the UK, they are welcome to apply for a dependents’ visa. However, it is important to note that the above option is just the primary package with extra costs and conditions.
• Employment Restrictions: A major thing to note is that your Tier 2 visa application will be associated with your sponsor that is the employer and will be bound by that sponsorship, and any conditions or restrictions that will be provided by the UKVI or the employer.
• Visa Renewal: Originally, Tier 2 visas were issued to the people responding to the job opportunity for a period not exceeding five years; after this period they may apply for an extension or they may choose to apply for ILR if they meet the qualifications.

Getting a Tier 2 visa is not easy as it may be a lengthy process. That is why, following all the requirements, given below, and preparing adequately, the chances of success will significantly increase. Just for your information, it is often wise to approach specialist immigration consultants for help and information since this process might be a little complicated, and also, there may be certain factors that might need to be looked at from a different angle in your case.

We hope this guide helps you find success in getting the UK Tier 2 Visa!