If you are researching tier 5 visa sponsorship, this guide explains how the UK Temporary Worker route works, eligibility requirements, and how to find licensed sponsors.
The Tier 5 visa category has been replaced by several Temporary Worker visa routes. However, many applicants still use the term when searching for short-term UK sponsorship options.
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What Is Tier 5 Visa Sponsorship?
Tier 5 visa sponsorship refers to a UK employer or approved scheme operator sponsoring a foreign national under one of the Temporary Worker visa categories. The sponsor must hold a valid Home Office sponsor licence.
Without sponsorship from a licensed organization, applicants cannot apply for this visa route.
Temporary Worker Categories (Former Tier 5)
- Creative Worker – For artists, performers, and entertainers
- Charity Worker – For unpaid voluntary roles
- Religious Worker – For religious duties
- Government Authorised Exchange – For training and work experience
- International Agreement – For work covered by international law
- Youth Mobility Scheme – For eligible young nationals (no sponsorship required in most cases)
Each category has specific eligibility criteria and duration limits.
Employer Requirements
To provide tier 5 visa sponsorship, an employer or scheme operator must:
- Hold an active Temporary Worker sponsor licence
- Offer a genuine role that meets category requirements
- Assign a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Comply with reporting and monitoring duties
Sponsors are responsible for ensuring workers follow visa conditions.
Applicant Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Have a confirmed Certificate of Sponsorship
- Meet financial maintenance requirements
- Intend to leave the UK at the end of the visa
- Meet any category-specific requirements
Some categories may also require English language ability.
Duration of Stay
Most Temporary Worker visas allow stays between 6 months and 2 years, depending on the category. Extensions are limited and do not typically lead directly to permanent settlement.
Costs Involved
- Visa application fee
- Immigration Health Surcharge (if applicable)
- Certificate of Sponsorship fee (employer)
Employers must pay certain sponsorship-related fees.
How to Find Licensed Sponsors
- Check the official UK Home Office register of licensed sponsors
- Apply for roles that state “Temporary Worker visa sponsorship available”
- Verify sponsor licence details before accepting an offer
Only organizations listed on the official sponsor register can legally issue a Certificate of Sponsorship.
Common Challenges
- Limited visa duration
- No direct pathway to settlement
- Strict compliance rules for sponsors
- Category-specific restrictions
Understanding your visa conditions is essential to avoid breaching immigration rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tier 5 visa still available?
No. It has been replaced by Temporary Worker visa routes, though the term is still widely used.
Can Tier 5 sponsorship lead to permanent residency?
Most Temporary Worker routes do not directly lead to settlement.
Can I switch to another visa category?
Switching may be possible depending on eligibility and immigration rules at the time of application.
Final Thoughts
Tier 5 visa sponsorship offers short-term opportunities in the UK under the Temporary Worker framework. Always verify sponsor licensing and understand visa limitations before applying.