UK Temporary Work Visas are short-term visas for specific types of work, volunteering, or exchange programs. These do not typically lead to settlement, but offer work opportunities up to 24 months.
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Visa Categories
🎭 Creative Worker Visa – Artists, musicians, actors for up to 12 months
🤝 Charity Worker Visa – Voluntary unpaid work for a UK-registered charity (up to 12 months)
🌾 Seasonal Worker Visa – Agriculture, horticulture (6-month max duration)
🌍 Youth Mobility Scheme – For citizens aged 18–30 from select countries, valid 2 years
🔁 Government Authorised Exchange – Internships, training, research (up to 12–24 months)
Eligibility
You must have a job offer or sponsorship certificate
Meet age or nationality criteria (e.g. Youth Mobility open to Australia, Canada, NZ, Japan, etc.)
No intention to stay permanently
Must prove financial ability (usually £1,270 in bank)
Required Documents
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
Valid passport
Proof of funds
TB test (if applicable)
Additional documents depending on the category (e.g. creative portfolio, charity endorsement)
Application Process
Secure sponsorship from an approved organization
Apply online for the specific visa type
Pay the application fee and NHS surcharge
Submit documents and attend biometric appointment
Wait for a decision (generally 3 weeks)
Fees & Validity
Visa fee: £298 for most categories
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035/year (except Youth Mobility which is fixed)
Duration: 6 months (seasonal) to 2 years (youth mobility, research)
Important Notes
You cannot bring dependants under most temporary work visas (exception: Creative Worker in some cases)
You must leave the UK at the end of the visa unless switching to another eligible route