Greenway Immigration Consultants
UK Charity Visa
Introduction
Eligibility Criteria
You will need a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK charity that is registered and approved by the Home Office.
The visa is intended for unpaid voluntary work, and you should not receive any compensation beyond reasonable expenses.
Your role should align with the charity’s objectives and meet the visa’s criteria for appropriate work.
You must show that you have sufficient funds to support yourself throughout your stay without needing public assistance.
Applicants must be at least 18 years old to be eligible for the UK Charity Visa.
Application Process
Secure a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a registered UK charity before starting your visa application.
Complete the visa application online through the UK government’s official visa application website.
- For your UK Charity Visa application, you need to provide several supporting documents: proof of your Certificate of Sponsorship, evidence of maintenance funds, personal identification documents like your passport, and any additional documents required by the visa guidelines.
Attend a biometric appointment to have your fingerprints and photograph taken as part of the application process.
Pay the visa application fee, which is currently £259.
Duration of Stay
Length of Visa
The UK Charity Visa is typically issued for a maximum of 12 months, or the duration specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.
Extensions
Unfortunately, it is not possible to extend this visa beyond the initial 12-month period.
Visa Requirements
You are not permitted to take on any paid work while in the UK on this visa.
You are not eligible to access public funds during your stay in the UK.
You may bring your family members (dependents) with you, but they must submit separate visa applications.
You are allowed to study, provided it does not interfere with your voluntary work commitments.
Arrival in the UK: You can enter the UK up to 14 days before your voluntary work start date.
Compliance with Visa Terms: It is important to adhere to all visa conditions to avoid having your visa revoked.
The UK Charity Worker Visa offers a valuable opportunity for individuals dedicated to voluntary work with charitable organizations. By meeting the eligibility requirements and following the application process, you can support meaningful causes while enjoying life in the UK.