Temporary Worker Visa UK
Short-term sponsored work in the UK – Creative, Charity, Religious, Seasonal, Exchange and Youth Mobility routes. We help you choose the right route and apply first time.
What is a Temporary Worker visa?
A UK Temporary Worker visa lets you work in the UK short term (usually 6–24 months) in a specific role, such as creative, charity, religious, seasonal or exchange work. It replaced Tier 5 in December 2020. Most routes need a certificate of sponsorship (CoS), and the time does not count towards ILR. For a long-term route, see the Skilled Worker visa.
Types of Temporary Worker visa (2026)
| Route | Who it’s for | Max stay |
|---|---|---|
| Creative Worker | Performers, artists, film/TV crew | 12 months (up to 24) |
| Charity Worker | Unpaid voluntary charity work | 12 months |
| Religious Worker | Non-pastoral religious work | 24 months |
| Government Authorised Exchange | Approved work experience, research, training | 12 or 24 months |
| International Agreement | Roles under international law, e.g. diplomatic staff | Usually 24 months |
| Seasonal Worker | Horticulture and poultry | 6 months in any 12 |
| Youth Mobility Scheme | Ages 18–30/35 from eligible countries, no sponsor | 24 months |
Seasonal Workers and Youth Mobility holders cannot bring dependants. Youth Mobility needs £2,530 savings. India uses the separate Young Professionals Scheme, and an EU youth scheme is not yet open. Source: GOV.UK
Fees and processing times
The application fee is £340 per person on every route. Most applicants also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 a year, or £776 for Youth Mobility and under-18s) and show £1,270 in savings unless the sponsor certifies maintenance. Decisions usually take 3 weeks from outside the UK and 8 weeks from inside. Source: GOV.UK
Related routes and employer sponsorship
The International Sportsperson visa and Global Business Mobility visas are separate routes. Employers need a sponsor licence for the specific route before assigning a certificate of sponsorship. If refused, see Administrative Review.
Why choose Adam Bernard Solicitors?
We are an SRA-regulated London firm with offices in High Holborn and Upton Park, and we have helped 15,000+ clients over 15 years. Call 0207 100 2525 (24/7) or book a free consultation.
For information only, not legal advice. Checked against GOV.UK, 8 October 2026.
Temporary Worker visa FAQs
What is a Temporary Worker visa?
A group of short-term UK work routes (Creative, Charity, Religious, Government Authorised Exchange, International Agreement and Seasonal Worker) allowing work for up to 2 years. It replaced Tier 5.
How much does it cost in 2026?
£340 per person, plus the Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 a year for most applicants.
Can it lead to ILR?
No. You would need to switch to a route such as the Skilled Worker visa.
Do I need a job offer?
Yes for sponsored routes (you need a certificate of sponsorship). The Youth Mobility Scheme does not.
How long does it take?
Usually 3 weeks from outside the UK and 8 weeks from inside.
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Our Clients Share Their Success Stories.
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