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The Creative Worker visa (Temporary Work) is designed for individuals who wish to work in the UK in the creative industries, such as theatre, film, television, and music. This visa route allows artists, entertainers, and musicians, as well as their technical and support staff, to undertake short-term engagements in the UK. It requires sponsorship from a UK-based employer who is registered with the Home Office as a licensed sponsor. The main purpose of this visa is to enrich the UK's cultural landscape by enabling international creative talent to contribute to various projects and events.
Creative Worker
The Creative Worker visa (Temporary Work) is designed for individuals who wish to work in the UK in the creative industries, such as theatre, film, television, and music. This visa route allows artists, entertainers, and musicians, as well as their technical and support staff, to undertake short-term engagements in the UK. It requires sponsorship from a UK-based employer who is registered with the Home Office as a licensed sponsor. The main purpose of this visa is to enrich the UK's cultural landscape by enabling international creative talent to contribute to various projects and events.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for the Creative Worker visa (Temporary Work), including detailed requirements, step-by-step application process, required documents, costs, timeline, and expert tips for a successful application.
Varies by application type
Immigration Health Charge
Paid by employer
A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a unique reference number provided by a UK-based employer who is licensed by the Home Office. It confirms your job details and eligibility for the Creative Worker visa. Without a CoS, you cannot apply for this visa as it acts as proof that you have a legitimate job offer in the UK.
FeaturedA Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is an electronic document issued by your UK employer, who must be a licensed sponsor. It includes details about your job and the duration of your employment. To obtain a CoS, you need to secure a job offer from a UK employer in the creative sector who is willing and able to sponsor you.
FeaturedYou must apply for the Creative Worker visa within 3 months of receiving your Certificate of Sponsorship. It is important to ensure that your CoS is valid and has not expired before you submit your visa application.
FeaturedThere is no set minimum salary requirement for the Creative Worker visa. However, the salary offered should align with industry standards for the specific role. Sponsors must demonstrate that the pay matches or exceeds the going rate for the job to ensure compliance with visa conditions.
FeaturedIf your salary offer does not meet the minimum threshold, your visa application may be refused. It is crucial to verify that your salary meets or exceeds industry standards for your specific role to ensure eligibility for the visa.
FeaturedTo demonstrate experience, you can provide a portfolio of your work, references from industry professionals, evidence of past projects, or any awards and recognitions you have received. These documents should highlight your expertise and contributions to the creative sector.
FeaturedIntroduction of a pathway to settlement for long-term creative workers.
8/16/2025
Tightening of eligibility criteria to ensure that the visa is used for genuine creative work engagements.
8/16/2025