This visa is perfect for foreigners who want to perform unpaid work for a charity organization in the United Kingdom. It is valid for up to 12 months.
Requirements to qualify for this visa: #2
- Provide the certificate of sponsorship reference number, which will be issued by the employer.
- Have sufficient funds to support yourself while in the UK (you generally need £1,270). This money must be in the applicant's bank account for at least 28 days. The notification period begins 31 days after the application is submitted. Example: if you submit your application on August 15, the funds must still be in your account on September 28.
- Be over 18 years old at the time of application.
- The employer must cover costs during the first month in the UK, which cannot exceed £1,270.
If you have been in the UK for at least 12 months, there is no need to prove financial solvency. #2
Additionally, the employer can decide to cover the maintenance costs, and this must be specified in the certificate of sponsorship by stating: "sponsor certifies maintenance." #2
Certificate of Sponsorship
This document contains a unique reference number that includes all necessary information about the work you will perform, along with your personal details.
The sponsor will issue the certificate and provide the necessary information related to the job, working hours, and the duties you will perform. The sponsor must be recognized by the UK government.
The certificate of sponsorship is valid for 3 months once issued, and its expiration date will be stated on the certificate.
Required Documents:
- Certificate of sponsorship reference number.
- Valid passport or other documents proving your identity.
- Proof of savings to support yourself (if the certificate states that maintenance is covered by the sponsor, this is not required).
- If traveling with a partner or children, proof of the relationship.
- Tuberculosis test results.
Volunteer Visa Application Process for the UK:
- You can apply for this visa up to 3 months before the first day of work in the UK, as indicated on the certificate of sponsorship.
- After completing the form on UK Immigration, you must schedule an appointment at a migration center (Bogotá, Medellín, or Barranquilla).
- At the appointment, your documentation will be reviewed, and biometric samples will be taken. You may be asked for additional documentation, which you must provide. If there are any issues with your documentation, you can scan it directly at the immigration center.
- The application processing time is 3 weeks outside the UK or 8 weeks if applying from within the UK.
- You will need to pay for healthcare coverage and the visa fee. The healthcare surcharge is £624, and the visa fee is £259.
- You may enter the UK 14 days before your start date.
What this visa allows you to do:
- Take certain courses.
- Perform the work described in the certificate of sponsorship.
- Get a second job in the same sector (industry) as the primary job, for up to 20 hours per week.
- Get a job on the shortage occupation list, also for up to 20 hours per week.
- Bring your spouse or permanent partner and children.
What this visa does not allow:
- Receiving payment for your work.
- Holding a permanent job.
- Accessing public funds.
Important:
- The migration center may require additional documents.
- All documents not in English or Welsh must be translated.
References:
#1 https://www.gov.uk/temporary-worker-charity-worker-visa
#2 https://www.gov.uk/temporary-worker-charity-worker-visa/eligibility