Creative Worker Visa (Temporary Work)
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 365 days
- Processing time
- 3 weeks (outside UK), 8 weeks (inside UK)
- Fee
- £319
- Validity
- Up to 12 months (or certificate duration + 28 days, whichever shorter)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
For creative workers in industries like film, music, dance, theatre, and fashion. Must make a unique contribution to the UK labour market. Minimum salary set by Equity, PACT, or BECTU (exceptions for models, musicians, circuses). Can do a second job in same sector for up to 20 hours per week. A Creative Worker visa concession exists for work of 3 months or less. Healthcare surcharge: £1,035 per year.
Eligibility
-
Age
Must be at least 18 years old
Min age: 18
-
Employment
Must have been offered work in the UK as a creative worker and make a unique contribution to the UK labour market
Required status: Sponsored creative worker
-
Financial
Must have at least £1,270 available for 28 consecutive days
Minimum funds: £1,270
Documents you need
-
Passport
Blank pages required: 1; Validity months: 6
-
Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements showing funds held for 28 consecutive days; Minimum amount: £1,270
-
Biometrics appointment
Booking url: https://www.gov.uk/creative-worker-visa; Location: Visa application centre or UK Immigration: ID Check app
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Online payment; Amount: £319
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Sponsorship certificate
Certificate name: Certificate of Sponsorship; Sponsor type: Licensed creative sector employer
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Tuberculosis test
Test type: Chest X-ray at approved clinic (if from designated country); Validity months: 6
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Health surcharge
Amount: £1,035 per year; Applicant category: Main applicant
How to apply
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Document gathering
Obtain Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed creative sector employer
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Online application
Apply online up to 3 months before your work start date
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Fee payment
Pay the visa application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
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Biometrics
Prove your identity at a visa application centre or via the UK Immigration: ID Check app
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Processing wait
Wait for a decision on your application