Tier 2 (General) Visa: A Pathway to Skilled Work Opportunities in the UK
Are you a skilled professional looking to work in the United Kingdom (UK)? The Tier 2 (General) Visa provides an excellent opportunity for individuals with valuable skills and expertise to work in the UK. This visa category is designed to address the country’s skill gaps by allowing employers to hire international workers for specific job roles. In this article, we will explore the Tier 2 (General) Visa in detail, including its eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits for both employers and visa holders.
Introduction: Overview of the Tier 2 (General) Visa
The Tier 2 (General) Visa is part of the UK’s Points-Based System (PBS) and is designed for skilled workers who have a job offer from a UK employer. This visa category aims to fill skill shortages in the UK workforce by attracting international talent. With a Tier 2 (General) Visa, individuals can work for a specific employer in a skilled job role for up to 5 years and 14 days.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Tier 2 (General) Visa, applicants must fulfill certain requirements:
1. Job Offer from a UK Employer
Applicants must have a valid job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsorship license. The job offer must be for a skilled position at a required skill level and meet the relevant salary threshold.
2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
The UK employer must provide the applicant with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) as proof of their job offer and willingness to sponsor the visa application.
3. Skills and Salary Requirements
Applicants must meet the required skill level for the job role as specified by the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI). The job must also meet the minimum salary threshold, which depends on the specific occupation and the applicant’s circumstances.
4. English Language Proficiency
Applicants need to demonstrate their proficiency in the English language by providing evidence of meeting the English language requirements.
5. Maintenance Funds
Applicants must show that they have sufficient funds to support themselves in the UK without relying on public funds. The amount required varies depending on individual circumstances.
Application Process
The application process for the Tier 2 (General) Visa involves several steps:
1. Sponsorship by UK Employer
The UK employer must be a licensed sponsor and issue the applicant a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). The employer will also assign a sponsor representative who will manage the sponsorship process.
2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
The applicant needs to provide the unique CoS reference number when completing the visa application. The CoS serves as proof of the job offer and the employer’s sponsorship.
3. Completing the Application Form
Applicants must complete the online visa application form, providing accurate information and supporting documents as required. This includes personal details, employment history, English language proficiency, and maintenance funds evidence.
4. Health Surcharge and Biometric Residence Permit
Applicants are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Additionally, biometric information, including fingerprints and photographs, must be provided at a visa application center.
5. Decision and Visa Issuance
After submitting the application, a decision will be made by the UKVI. If the application is successful, the applicant will receive a 30-day entry clearance vignette to travel to the UK. Within 10 days of arrival, the applicant must collect their Biometric Residence Permit, which will serve as their visa for the duration of their stay.
Benefits of the Tier 2 (General) Visa
The Tier 2 (General) Visa offers several benefits for both employers and visa holders:
1. Employment Opportunities in the UK
The visa provides skilled individuals with opportunities to work in the UK and contribute their expertise to British businesses. It allows them to develop their careers and gain international work experience.
2. Pathway to Settlement
Holders of the Tier 2 (General) Visa may be eligible to apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after completing a continuous residence period of 5 years in the UK, subject to meeting the necessary requirements.
3. Dependent Visas
Dependents, including spouses/partners and children, can accompany the visa holder to the UK under the Tier 2 (General) Dependent Visa. They can work or study during their stay, subject to certain conditions.
4. Travel and Re-entry
Visa holders can freely travel in and out of the UK during the validity of their visa. They can also take advantage of multiple entry options, allowing them to travel for personal or professional reasons.
Responsibilities and Limitations
While the Tier 2 (General) Visa offers numerous benefits, it also comes with certain responsibilities and limitations:
1. Employer Sponsorship and Compliance
The UK employer sponsoring the visa holder must comply with their duties as a sponsor, including maintaining accurate records, reporting changes or breaches, and ensuring compliance with immigration rules.
2. Reporting Duties
Visa holders must report any changes in their employment, including job title, salary, or working hours, to their sponsor. They should also keep their personal details updated and report any changes in circumstances that may affect their immigration status.
3. Restrictions on Certain Benefits
Some individuals holding the Tier 2 (General) Visa may not be eligible for certain public benefits, such as income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance or Housing Benefit. It’s important to understand the specific restrictions and entitlements.
Conclusion
The Tier 2 (General) Visa offers skilled professionals the opportunity to work in the UK, contribute to the country’s economy, and develop their careers. By meeting the eligibility criteria, following the application process, and understanding the responsibilities and limitations, individuals can make the most of this visa category and enjoy the benefits it provides.
FAQs
FAQ 1: Can I switch to a Tier 2 (General) Visa from within the UK?
In most cases, individuals who are already in the UK on a valid visa can switch to a Tier 2 (General) Visa from within the country, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
FAQ 2: Is there an annual limit on the number of Tier 2 (General) Visas issued?
Yes, there is an annual limit on the number of Tier 2 (General) Visas that can be issued. This limit is known as the annual cap and applies to certain job roles and applicants.
FAQ 3: Can I apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) after holding a Tier 2 (General) Visa?
Yes, individuals who have held a Tier 2 (General) Visa for a continuous period of 5 years and meet the requirements can apply for settlement (indefinite leave to remain) in the UK.
FAQ 4: Can my family join me in the UK on a Tier 2 (General) Dependent Visa?
Yes, your spouse/partner and children can join you in the UK on a Tier 2 (General) Dependent Visa. They will have the right to work or study during their stay, subject to certain conditions.
FAQ 5: Can I switch employers while holding a Tier 2 (General) Visa?
Yes, you can switch employers while holding a Tier 2 (General) Visa. However, your new employer must hold a valid sponsor license and issue you a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the new job role.