UK Charity Worker Visa

The UK Charity Worker Visa, part of the Temporary Work (Charity Worker) route, allows individuals to travel to the UK to undertake unpaid voluntary work for a registered charity. This visa is specifically designed for people who want to contribute to meaningful charitable causes while gaining experience in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify for a UK Charity Worker Visa if:

• You intend to do unpaid voluntary work for a recognised UK charity.

• You have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a licensed sponsor.

• The role you take up is directly connected to the work of your sponsoring organisation.

• You meet the general immigration requirements, including proving your identity and providing supporting documents.

Key Features of the Visa

With a Charity Worker Visa, you are permitted to:

• Work for your sponsor in the role described on your CoS.

• Study in the UK (for certain courses, an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate may be required).

• Take up a second role in the same sector for up to 20 hours per week.

• Do a job on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list for up to 20 hours per week.

• Bring your partner and dependent children to the UK, provided they meet eligibility criteria.

Restrictions

• You cannot receive payment for your work (only voluntary, unpaid roles are allowed).

• You cannot apply for or take a permanent job.

• You are not eligible to receive public funds or benefits such as housing support.

Duration of Stay

• You can stay in the UK for up to 12 months, or for the duration listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.

• You may arrive up to 14 days before your official start date.

Application Process

1. Apply no earlier than 3 months before your work start date (as shown on your sponsorship certificate).

2. Provide your documents and verify your identity during the process.

3. Pay the required application fee (same cost whether applying inside or outside the UK).

4. Processing times:

   • 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.

   • 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK.

   • Faster processing may be available for an additional fee.