//
The Government Authorised Exchange visa (Temporary Work) is designed for individuals who intend to come to the UK for a short-term work experience, to undertake training, an Overseas Government Language Programme, research, or a fellowship through approved schemes that aim to share knowledge, experience, and best practice. This visa category is part of the Temporary Worker route and requires sponsorship from a UK-based organisation that is authorised by the Home Office. It is not a route to settlement, but it allows individuals to gain valuable experience in the UK for a temporary period.
Temporary Worker
The Government Authorised Exchange visa (Temporary Work) is designed for individuals who intend to come to the UK for a short-term work experience, to undertake training, an Overseas Government Language Programme, research, or a fellowship through approved schemes that aim to share knowledge, experience, and best practice. This visa category is part of the Temporary Worker route and requires sponsorship from a UK-based organisation that is authorised by the Home Office. It is not a route to settlement, but it allows individuals to gain valuable experience in the UK for a temporary period.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about applying for the Government Authorised Exchange 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 an electronic record generated by your UK sponsor, outlining the details of your work or training program. To obtain one, you must be accepted into a government-authorized exchange program. Your sponsor will provide you with a unique reference number, which you need to include in your visa application.
FeaturedA Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a unique reference number issued by your UK sponsor, who must be a licensed organisation running a government-authorised exchange scheme. Your sponsor will provide this after confirming your eligibility and role within their programme. Ensure that the CoS outlines the role’s start and end date, which should not exceed the duration specific to your exchange scheme.
FeaturedYou must have at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before your visa application. Alternatively, if your sponsor is A-rated, they may certify your maintenance, meaning they can assure the UK Home Office that they will provide financial support.
FeaturedYou need to show you have at least £1,270 in savings for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before your application. Bank statements or a letter from your bank confirming your funds are typical proofs. Ensure your name, account number, and the bank’s details are included, and the documents are in English or translated if necessary.
FeaturedNo, there is no English language requirement for the Government Authorised Exchange visa. This makes it accessible to a wider range of applicants from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
FeaturedThere is no explicit minimum salary threshold for this visa category. However, the role should offer adequate remuneration to cover your living expenses in the UK. This typically varies depending on the nature of your exchange programme, so confirm with your sponsor what is considered sufficient.
FeaturedTightening of eligibility criteria, potentially introducing stricter checks on sponsor organizations.
8/16/2025