In this article, we’ll explore the Tier 4 (Sponsorship) visa, Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visa, and Tier 5 Volunteer and Investor visas, and how they can facilitate your relocation to the United Kingdom.
By following these guidelines, you can embark on your journey towards securing permanent residency in the UK, all while enjoying additional advantages. Keep reading to discover more.
Tier 4 (Sponsorship) Visa
The Tier 4 (Sponsorship) Visa is an avenue for African skilled workers to migrate to the UK. South African citizens, who attain a minimum of 70 points in the GATS test, can apply for this visa through their employer. The GATS test assesses the qualifications and experience of applicants and considers the Shortage Occupations List, which identifies professions in demand.
Tier 2 (Sportsperson) Visa
Obtaining a Tier 2 (Sportsperson) visa to live and work in the UK is relatively straightforward, but it comes with specific prerequisites. To be eligible, you must be an elite sportsperson or a qualified coach at the international level in your field. Additionally, endorsement from the relevant governing body is mandatory. With the requisite documentation, this visa permits you to reside and work in the UK for up to three years.
Tier 5 (Volunteer) Visa
The primary immigration route to the UK is the 5-tier points-based system. Each applicant must successfully pass a points-based evaluation to qualify for a visa within their designated tier. Points are awarded based on diverse criteria such as age, skills, experience, and education. This visa offers skilled migrants the opportunity to work in various industries in the UK, with the ‘Temporary Worker’ category being the most common, though other visa types are available as well.
Tier 1 (Investor) Visa
The Tier 1 (Investor) visa category has recently been suspended by the UK government, a previously favored immigration program for foreign nationals. This category allowed individuals and their families to work, study, and ultimately gain indefinite leave to remain and citizenship in the UK. According to a recent report by the Migration Advisory Committee, this scheme provided limited economic benefits to the UK labor force.
Additionally, for Africans looking to visit the UK as General Visitors, securing a visa can be challenging, but not insurmountable. If you are a South African, the first step is to obtain a UK visa and a passport, which typically takes a week or less, though some countries may require a few additional days. Various strategies can help you streamline the process, minimize wait times, and alleviate any inconveniences.