Like most things in life, knowing where and how to start is key. In addition patience, persistence and action everyday is required.
For many, Visa Sponsorship & the Tier 2 General Visa process seems complex and laborious. However, it needn't be that way. The whole premise of the Tier 2 General Visa and company sponsorship is for companies to access talent that they cannot find locally in the UK, therefore should you have a rock-star skill set, you're off to a good start!
You may already be on the following visa:
Tier 2 General
Tier 5 YM Visa
Dependent Visa
Tier 4 Student Visa
Tier 1 General/Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa
The following 10 tips should provide further insight to obtaining a Tier 2 General Visa:
1. Skill set – ensure you are highly skilled and do refer to the SOC CODES. Roles RQF level 6 and above are suitable for Tier 2 General Sponsorship and provide minimum salary thresholds - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-j-codes-of-practice-for-skilled-work
2. Network & Understand the market – Linkedin is a very powerful tool and you can connect with relevant people within your field. In addition looking at market trends and upselling yourself can really pay dividends. For example if you're a Software Developer – learn the latest technologies and processes to ensure you're highly sought after.
3. Network with professionals & Recruiters – again using Linkedin & search engines you can connect with professionals in your field and recruiters who have specific industry knowledge and access to clients/projects.
4. Knowing where to look is key – The list of registered sponsors is vast and many are not relevant to your field – the link here may be useful - https://careerinteractive.org/uks-biggest-tier-2-sponsor/
5. Narrow down the list of companies you wish to contact and look to speak with people already on Tier 2 General understand their journey & experience.
6. Ensure said companies are willing to sponsor and have genuine requirements
7. Prepare yourself – The Tier 2 General Visa works on a points based system – found in the guidance - https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/673323/tier-2-v29.0ext.pdf
70 points in total of which:
30 are awarded for a valid COS
20 are awarded for an appropriate salary (inline with the SOC CODES above)
10 for maintenance funds
10 for English Language
8. Maintenance funds – unless your sponsor is A-rated and willing to issue you a maintenance letter, you will have to have £945 in a bank account for 90 days
9. English Language requirement – unless you come from a country whose native language is English - https://www.gov.uk/tier-2-general/knowledge-of-english you will have to sit and English Language test (IELTS) or get a NARIC statement to show your degree was taught in English medium and equivalent to a UK Degree.
10. Tenacity goes a long way – so long as you are prepared, organised and have a great skill set you'll be in a good position. There will be set backs however perseverance is key!
For more information on TIER 2 GENERAL VISA SPONSORSHIP for IT Professionals & Tier 2 General Visa Sponsorship Companies (IT) and UK IT Companies willing to Sponsor a Tier 2 General Visa do get in touch at consult@mavisas.co.uk. Do check our news page for more useful Blogs!
Thanks for reading
Mason Alexander