If you are looking for charity worker visa sponsorship in the UK, this guide explains eligibility requirements, how the sponsorship process works, and how to find licensed employers.
The Charity Worker route falls under the UK Temporary Work visa category. It allows individuals to undertake voluntary, unpaid work for a registered charity that holds a valid sponsor licence.
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What Is Charity Worker Visa Sponsorship?
Charity worker visa sponsorship refers to the process where a UK-licensed charity issues a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to a foreign national so they can apply for a Temporary Work – Charity Worker visa.
The sponsoring organisation must be approved by the UK Home Office and listed on the official register of licensed sponsors.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for charity worker visa sponsorship, applicants must:
- Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed charity
- Intend to undertake voluntary, unpaid work
- Meet financial maintenance requirements
- Genuinely intend to leave the UK after the visa expires
This visa route does not permit paid employment.
Duration of the Visa
The Charity Worker visa is typically granted for up to 12 months or the time stated on the Certificate of Sponsorship plus up to 14 days, whichever is shorter.
Charity worker visa sponsorship does not lead directly to settlement (indefinite leave to remain).
How to Find Licensed Sponsors
If you are seeking charity worker visa sponsorship, you must identify a UK charity that holds a valid sponsor licence.
- Check the official UK Home Office register of licensed sponsors
- Search charity job boards for volunteer roles
- Contact registered UK charities directly
- Verify sponsor licence status before applying
Only organisations listed on the official sponsor register can legally issue a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Application Process
Once you receive a Certificate of Sponsorship, you can apply online for the Charity Worker visa. The application process generally includes:
- Completing the online visa application
- Paying the visa fee
- Paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable)
- Attending a biometric appointment
Processing times vary depending on your country of residence.
Costs Involved
Applicants should budget for:
- Visa application fee
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- Travel expenses
- Personal maintenance funds
Charity worker visa sponsorship does not usually involve salary payments, as the role must be voluntary.
Important Conditions
Under charity worker visa sponsorship rules, you:
- Cannot receive payment beyond reasonable expenses
- Cannot switch into most other work routes from inside the UK
- Must work only for your sponsoring organisation
Failure to comply with visa conditions may result in cancellation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive payment under this visa?
No. The Charity Worker route is strictly for unpaid voluntary work.
Does charity worker visa sponsorship lead to permanent residency?
No. This is a temporary visa and does not directly lead to settlement.
Can I switch to another visa category?
Switching options are limited and depend on your circumstances.
Final Thoughts
Charity worker visa sponsorship offers an opportunity to contribute to UK charitable organisations on a temporary basis. Always verify that your sponsor is licensed and ensure you understand all visa conditions before applying.