Question 1

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain one for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) is a reference number issued by your UK employer, who must be a licensed sponsor. It confirms your job details and that your role falls under an international agreement. You cannot apply for this visa without a CoS. To obtain it, your employer must first be registered as a sponsor with the UK Home Office.

Question 2

What documents are needed to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

To obtain a CoS, your employer must be a licensed sponsor and issue you the certificate confirming the role is covered by an international agreement. You typically need to provide your employment details, job role, and evidence that the position is part of an international agreement. Employers must also verify that your salary meets the specific threshold for the role.

Question 3

Do I need to demonstrate English language proficiency for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

English language requirements depend on the specific role. For some positions, especially those involving public interaction or significant communication responsibilities, you may need to prove your English proficiency through a degree taught in English or an approved English language test.

Question 4

How do I know if my job role meets the salary threshold for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

Salary thresholds are specific to the international agreement and job role. They are stipulated in the agreement under which you are working. Your employer should include this information in your CoS, and you should confirm with them that your salary meets or exceeds this threshold before applying.

Question 5

What types of employment are recognized under the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

Recognized employment includes roles such as private servants in diplomatic households, employees of overseas governments or international organizations, and roles under the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS). The job must specifically fall under the scope of an international agreement.

Question 6

Can I apply for the International Agreement visa while I am already in the UK on another visa?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot switch to the International Agreement visa from within the UK. You must apply from outside the UK, as this visa category does not allow in-country switching.

Question 7

Is there a minimum salary requirement for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

While there isn't a standardized salary threshold across all roles, your salary should meet the market rate for your position. The expectation is that your remuneration aligns with the typical earnings for similar roles under international agreements.

Question 8

What are the maintenance funds requirements for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

You must show you have at least £1,270 in personal savings to support yourself upon arrival in the UK unless your sponsor certifies maintenance on your CoS. These funds must have been in your bank account for at least 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the date of your visa application.

Question 9

How long does the application process for the International Agreement visa take?

Accepted Answer

The application processing time for this visa is typically around 3 weeks if you are applying from outside the UK. However, processing times can vary, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of your intended start date.

Question 10

Is there an English language requirement for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

There are no specific English language requirements for this visa. However, proficiency in English may be necessary to perform your job effectively, depending on your role. It’s advisable to check with your employer if language skills are required.

Question 11

What are the maintenance fund requirements for this visa?

Accepted Answer

You must have sufficient personal savings to support yourself in the UK, typically at least £1,270. This requirement can be waived if your sponsor states on your CoS that they will cover your costs during your first month in the UK, up to £1,270.

Question 12

How long can I stay in the UK on an International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

You can stay in the UK for up to 24 months on an International Agreement visa. This visa is intended for temporary work under international agreements and does not lead to settlement.

Question 13

Can I bring my family with me on the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can bring dependents, such as your spouse or children, to the UK. They will need to apply separately for a dependent visa and meet certain eligibility criteria, including maintenance funds requirements.

Question 14

What is the processing time for the International Agreement visa application?

Accepted Answer

The processing time for the International Agreement visa is generally up to 3 weeks if you apply from outside the UK. However, it can vary based on the volume of applications and your country of application. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.

Question 15

Is there a limit to how long I can stay in the UK on this visa?

Accepted Answer

The maximum duration of stay under the International Agreement visa is typically up to 5 years, depending on your specific role and the terms of the international agreement under which you are working.

Question 16

What fees are involved in applying for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

The application fee for the International Agreement visa is currently £259. Additionally, you must pay the healthcare surcharge, which is usually £624 per year. Fees are subject to change, so checking the latest costs before applying is crucial.

Question 17

Can I switch to a different visa from the International Agreement visa while in the UK?

Accepted Answer

Switching from the International Agreement visa to another visa category while in the UK is generally not allowed. You would typically need to return to your home country and apply for a new visa from there.

Question 18

What happens if my International Agreement visa application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons and whether you have the right to an administrative review or appeal. You should address the issues raised and consider reapplying if possible or seek legal advice to understand your options.

Question 19

What are the costs associated with applying for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

The application fee for the International Agreement visa is £259. Additionally, you’ll need to pay the healthcare surcharge, which is usually £624 per year. Specific costs can vary depending on your situation.

Question 20

Can my dependents join me in the UK on an International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, your dependents can join you in the UK. You must demonstrate you have additional funds to support them. Your spouse or partner and children under 18 can apply as your dependents and must submit their applications simultaneously or subsequently.

Question 21

What should I do if my International Agreement visa application is refused?

Accepted Answer

If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You may be able to apply for an administrative review if you believe the decision was incorrect, or you can submit a new application addressing the reasons for refusal.

Question 22

Do I need a criminal record certificate to apply for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you must provide a criminal record certificate from any country where you have lived for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. This requirement applies unless you are applying from within the UK, where it is not needed.

Question 23

Are there any educational requirements for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

Educational requirements vary depending on the role. Some positions may require specific qualifications implicitly, but generally, sufficient experience relevant to the international agreement is more critical than formal education.

Question 24

Can I extend my stay beyond 24 months on an International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

No, you cannot extend your stay beyond 24 months with the International Agreement visa. This visa is intended for temporary work under specific international agreements and does not permit extensions or lead to settlement.

Question 25

Can I apply for settlement in the UK with the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

No, the International Agreement visa does not lead to settlement in the UK. It is a temporary work visa that allows you to work under international agreements but does not provide a pathway to permanent residency.

Question 26

What roles typically qualify under the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

Roles that qualify under the International Agreement visa are those covered by international treaties, such as GATS, or similar agreements. These can include roles related to service provision, diplomatic services, or contract work relevant to international obligations.

Question 27

What happens if my Certificate of Sponsorship is withdrawn after I've applied for the visa?

Accepted Answer

If your CoS is withdrawn, your application may be refused, or your visa could be curtailed if already granted. It’s crucial to ensure your sponsor maintains their sponsorship status and continues to support your employment.

Question 28

What should I do if my circumstances change after applying for the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

If your circumstances change, such as changes in employment or personal details, you must notify the UK Visas and Immigration as soon as possible. Updates can usually be made through your online account or by contacting the Visa and Immigration Contact Centre.

Question 29

Can I change employers while on the International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

You cannot change employers without applying for a new visa. Your visa is tied to the specific employer who issued your Certificate of Sponsorship. If you wish to work for a different employer, you must obtain a new CoS and apply for a new visa.

Question 30

Can I switch employers while on an International Agreement visa?

Accepted Answer

You may change employers if the new job still complies with the conditions of the international agreement and you obtain a new CoS from the new employer. You must apply for a new visa reflecting these changes before beginning work with the new employer.

International Agreement visa (Temporary Work) FAQ

Featured Questions

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain one for the International Agreement visa?General00

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain one for the International Agreement visa?

What documents are needed to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the International Agreement visa?Documents0

What documents are needed to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the International Agreement visa?

Eligibility Questions

What roles typically qualify under the International Agreement visa?00

What roles typically qualify under the International Agreement visa?

Application Process Questions

Can I apply for the International Agreement visa while I am already in the UK on another visa?00

Can I apply for the International Agreement visa while I am already in the UK on another visa?

What happens if my International Agreement visa application is refused?0

What happens if my International Agreement visa application is refused?

Documents Questions

What documents are needed to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the International Agreement visa?00

What documents are needed to obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for the International Agreement visa?

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What fees are involved in applying for the International Agreement visa?00

What fees are involved in applying for the International Agreement visa?

What are the costs associated with applying for the International Agreement visa?0

What are the costs associated with applying for the International Agreement visa?

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How long does the application process for the International Agreement visa take?00

How long does the application process for the International Agreement visa take?

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How long can I stay in the UK on an International Agreement visa?

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What happens if my Certificate of Sponsorship is withdrawn after I've applied for the visa?

What should I do if my circumstances change after applying for the International Agreement visa?0

What should I do if my circumstances change after applying for the International Agreement visa?

General Questions

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain one for the International Agreement visa?00

What is a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and how do I obtain one for the International Agreement visa?

Do I need to demonstrate English language proficiency for the International Agreement visa?

Do I need to demonstrate English language proficiency for the International Agreement visa?

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Do I need to demonstrate English language proficiency for the International Agreement visa?General00

Do I need to demonstrate English language proficiency for the International Agreement visa?

How do I know if my job role meets the salary threshold for the International Agreement visa?General00

How do I know if my job role meets the salary threshold for the International Agreement visa?

What types of employment are recognized under the International Agreement visa?General00

What types of employment are recognized under the International Agreement visa?

Can I apply for the International Agreement visa while I am already in the UK on another visa?Application Process00

Can I apply for the International Agreement visa while I am already in the UK on another visa?

Is there a minimum salary requirement for the International Agreement visa?General00

Is there a minimum salary requirement for the International Agreement visa?

What are the maintenance funds requirements for the International Agreement visa?General00

What are the maintenance funds requirements for the International Agreement visa?

How long does the application process for the International Agreement visa take?Timeline00

How long does the application process for the International Agreement visa take?

Is there an English language requirement for the International Agreement visa?General00

Is there an English language requirement for the International Agreement visa?

What should I do if my International Agreement visa application is refused?00

What should I do if my International Agreement visa application is refused?

Do I need a criminal record certificate to apply for the International Agreement visa?00

Do I need a criminal record certificate to apply for the International Agreement visa?

Can I apply for settlement in the UK with the International Agreement visa?00

Can I apply for settlement in the UK with the International Agreement visa?

What is the processing time for the International Agreement visa application?00

What is the processing time for the International Agreement visa application?

Is there a limit to how long I can stay in the UK on this visa?00

Is there a limit to how long I can stay in the UK on this visa?

How do I know if my job role meets the salary threshold for the International Agreement visa?00

How do I know if my job role meets the salary threshold for the International Agreement visa?

What types of employment are recognized under the International Agreement visa?00

What types of employment are recognized under the International Agreement visa?

Is there a minimum salary requirement for the International Agreement visa?00

Is there a minimum salary requirement for the International Agreement visa?

What are the maintenance funds requirements for the International Agreement visa?00

What are the maintenance funds requirements for the International Agreement visa?

Is there an English language requirement for the International Agreement visa?00

Is there an English language requirement for the International Agreement visa?

What are the maintenance fund requirements for this visa?00

What are the maintenance fund requirements for this visa?