How To Get A Work Visa In The UK As A Nigerian Immigrant.
If you’ve been considering moving from Nigeria to the UK for work, you’ll need to have comprehensive knowledge of the type of visa that best applies to you, the associated costs, and the documents you need to make your move.
In this guide, we highlight all the necessary information you need to have.
Types of Work Visas.
There are a number of visa categories for people looking to move to the UK, and the very first step in planning should be figuring out the category that works best for you. Here are some of the main visa types:
Health and Care Worker Visa: This long-term visa targets medical professionals intending to work with the NHS, an NHS supplier, or in adult social care. Typically lasting up to 5 years before requiring renewal, to qualify for this visa, you must:
Be a qualified doctor, nurse or health professional.
Have a confirmed job offer from an employer in the UK already.
Have a certificate of sponsorship from your employer.
An advantage of the health visa is exemption from health surcharge payment during your application process.
Skilled Worker Visa: This visa allows you to come work with an approved employer in the UK and lasts for up to 5 years. To qualify for this visa, you must:
Be working a job that’s on the list of eligible occupations. You can check if your job is eligible here.
Have a confirmed job offer.
Work for an employer approved by the Home Office.
Have a certificate of sponsorship from your employer with information about the role you’ve been offered.
Global Talent Visa: This visa category is aimed at leaders or potential leaders in digital technology, academia, research, arts and culture. It doesn't require that you already have a job offer before starting your application process and is valid for up to 5 years.
To apply for a Global Talent visa, you must have successfully applied for an endorsement that proves you are a leader or potential leader in the specified fields. You can apply for a global talent endorsement here.
Additionally, there are temporary short-stay visas such as:
Creative Worker Visa: This is tailored for individuals in the creative industry, e.g., actors, musicians, dancers, permitting a stay of up to 12 months.
Seasonal Worker Visa: This visa is specifically aimed at those seeking temporary farm work in the UK, allowing a stay of up to 6 months.
Charity Worker Visa: This is for people looking to do unpaid volunteer work for a charity in the UK. It allows you to stay for up to 12 months, and you must have a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed employer.
What Do I Need To Apply For A Visa.
You’ll primarily be asked for your passport to prove your identity and supporting documents like your certificate of sponsorship reference number, proof of funds, tuberculosis test result, and more depending on your visa category. The application process can be initiated on the gov.uk website with a waiting time of about 3 weeks for applications from outside the UK.
How Much Does It Cost To Apply For A Visa?
The application fee varies depending on the visa category. Here's a breakdown of the major categories:
Additionally, individuals are required to maintain a minimum savings threshold, typically £1,270 per person.
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To start your visa application and for more information, visit www.gov.uk . Best of luck!
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