Tier 2 Sportsperson visas

Tier 2 Sportsperson visas are for non-European Economic Area nationals who are seeking entry to the UK in their capacity as a sportsperson/coach. Mulberry Finch can assist you with any queries that you may have regarding an application under this Tier and with the application itself.

The Tier 2 Sportsperson visa is a subcategory of Tier 2 within the Points Based System. As such, the following requirements must be met in order to become eligible to make an application for a Tier 2 Sportsperson visa:

• A job offer;
• A certificate of sponsorship from a relevant Tier 2 sponsor;
• Scored 70 points from the three sets of criteria: Attributes (50 points); English language skills (10 points) and Maintenance (10 points).

In addition to meeting these requirements, it is necessary to possess an endorsement from your sport’s governing body. The purpose of the endorsement is to confirm that:

• You are internationally established at the highest level;
• You will make a significant contribution to the development of your sport in the UK; and
• It is appropriate to fill the post from outside the EEA.

Our expert immigration solicitors will assess your individual circumstances and advise if you meet the necessary requirements to make an application for a Tier 2 Sportsperson visa. We will also assist you with any queries you have with regards to the application form and follow-up questions once your application has been submitted. This will include:

• Advising on and preparing the supporting documentation to be submitted with your visa application, such as your certificate of sponsorship and endorsement;
• Determining if you achieve the relevant pass mark for points for a visa by assessing your attributes, English language skills and maintenance;
• Providing guidance on how to achieve the relevant pass mark for points if you fall short in any/all of the criteria for points; and
• Completing and submitting your Tier 2 Sportsperson visa application to the relevant authority on your behalf.

If you wish to enter the UK as a sportsperson for a short time, you should apply for a Tier 5 Temporary Worker visa. We will assess your circumstances and advise on whether your application should be made under Tier 2 or Tier 5.

If you have any queries on the Tier 2 Sportsperson visa, please do not hesitate to call us now to assess your situation and provide you with the advice you need to get your application started.