Personal Immigration

Sportsperson

Elite sportspersons and coaches can come to the UK under Tier 2 or Tier 5 of the Points Based System.

Tier 5 (Sport)
Tier 5 is for sportspersons who will stay in the UK for up to 24 months.

The applicant must be able to demonstrate the following:

  • they make a significant contribution to their sport at the highest level;
  • their sport’s governing body is endorsing their application and they have a suitable sponsor (this may be a club for example);
  • they have sufficient funds to maintain themselves;
  • they have a valid TB test certificate, if applying from a relevant country;
  • they do not fall for refusal under the general grounds for refusal.

The applicant can be accompanied by their dependants.

Tier 2 (Sportsperson)
Tier 2 is for applicants who will stay in the UK for more than 24 months. Applicants can apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain once they have completed 5 years in this category (providing they meet the requirements for ILR).

The applicant must be able to demonstrate the following:

  • they are an elite sportsperson or qualified coach, who is recognised by their sport’s governing body as being at the highest level of their profession internationally
  • their sport’s governing body is endorsing their application and they have a suitable sponsor (this may be a club for example);
  • their work will develop their particular sport in the UK at the highest level
  • they meet the required level of English language (currently B1 of the CEFR)
  • they have sufficient funds to maintain themselves
  • they have a valid TB test certificate, if applying from a relevant country
  • they do not fall for refusal under the general grounds for refusal.

The applicant can be accompanied by their dependants.

Sportsperson’s visas: How we can help
The Home Office will carefully scrutinise an application for a sportsperson’s visa and if it considers that any of the other requirements have not been met, the application will fall for refusal. It is therefore essential that the application is prepared thoroughly and carefully.

We are experienced in working with individuals, sports clubs/associations and endorsing bodies to ensure a successful outcome. We will provide expert guidance and assistance throughout the process.

If you require legal assistance or would just like to discuss your situation with one of our experts on a no-obligation basis, please contact us.