loader image

Work Visa

International Sportsperson Visa

INTERNATIONAL SPORTSPERSON VISA

The International Sportsperson Visa is a type of visa that allows internationally recognized professional athletes or coaches to work and participate in events in the United Kingdom.

This visa is aimed at individuals with the potential to make a significant contribution to the UK in the field of sports and covers individual or team sports such as football, tennis, and basketball.

  • Obtaining an endorsement from the UK Sports Federation or the relevant governing body
  • Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from an approved sponsor employer
  • Having international success and experience in the field of sports
  • Meeting minimum salary and contract requirements (generally in line with industry standards)
  • Proving English language proficiency (for visa applications longer than 12 months)
  • Valid passport or travel document
  • Endorsement letter from the sports federation
  • Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
  • Documents proving talent and achievements as an athlete or coach
  • Documents showing salary, contract, or event details
  • English language proficiency certificate (for long-term visas)
  • Payment documents for visa and healthcare surcharge
  • Biometric information (fingerprint and photograph)
  1. Obtaining Endorsement from the Sports Federation
  2. Obtaining a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the Sponsor Organization
  3. Submitting the Online Visa Application
  4. Preparing and Submitting Required Documents
  5. Providing Biometric Information
  6. Paying Visa and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Fees
  7. Evaluation and Finalization of the Application

What to Know
Before Applying

To achieve a successful outcome, it is crucial to pay attention to the following points before applying for the International Sportsperson Visa:

  • Sports Federation Endorsement is Mandatory: You must obtain an eligibility endorsement from the relevant sports authority before applying.
  • A Sponsor Organization is Required: Sponsorship must be secured from an approved sports club or organization.
  • Language Proficiency is Required for Visas Over 12 Months.
  • Elite Competence as an Athlete or Coach is Expected.
  • Proof of Financial Means May Be Required: Especially for short-term sponsorships, evidence of financial sufficiency may be requested.
  • You Can Apply with Family Members.

Application Duration
and Recommendations

The visa application process should be conducted in a planned and timely manner. To facilitate the process and avoid potential issues, consider the following recommendations:

  • Start the Endorsement and Sponsorship Processes Early: Obtaining documents from sports authorities and sponsor organizations can take time.
  • Prepare Your Documents Completely: Sports achievement documents, contracts, and sponsor endorsements must be complete.
  • Visa Processing Time: Results are typically announced within 3 weeks.
  • Short and Long-Term Visas Available:
    • Short-term visa for up to 12 months
    • Long-term work visa for over 12 months
  • May Lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain: Long-term visa holders may apply for indefinite leave to remain under certain conditions.

For All Your Questions

Contact Us

+44 (0) 7526 900 314

Get in Touch
WhatsApp