Sportsperson Visa (Tier 2)
International sportspersons or qualified coaches intending to make a contribution to the development of their sport in the UK can apply to enter the UK via the Sportsperson visa. As an elite professional in your sport you can be granted a visa that enables you, as a foreign national, to live in the UK for a maximum of 3 years. This is subject to you making an exceptional difference to your sport in the UK.
You can apply for a Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visa if all of the following apply:
- You’re an elite sportsperson or qualified coach, who’s recognised by your sport’s governing body as being at the highest level of your profession internationally
- Your sport’s governing body is endorsing your application
- Your employment will develop your sport in the UK at the highest level
- You’re from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland
- You meet the other eligibility requirements
You must obtain an endorsement from the governing body of your sport. They must hold a sponsor licence to employ overseas workers in order to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship to support your application.
We advise you seek assistance from our immigration experts to discuss the legalities governing this visa at the earliest opportunity.