5 UK Visa Tiers, Explained Simply
So you want to move to London, or anywhere else in the UK? You’re in for an adventure…but not before you go through lots of red tape.
I’ve moved to the UK from America twice, each time on a different Visa with different complications and fees.
There are loads of UK types of visas available, each with its own requirements and really confusing paperwork. But which one should you research?
I’m here to break down the UK Visa categories for you in simple terms to get you on the right track.
*This is not legal or immigration advice, and is only from my perspective as an American expat in the UK who has been through the process. Always get legal advice before taking any actions!
How Many Types of Visas are There in the UK?
In the UK there are 5 tiers, or categories, of visas. Within each tier are several different specific types of visas that you may be eligible for.
Which of the UK Visa categories you’re eligible for will depend on where you’re from, what your job is, and whether you have any special circumstances.
What is a UK VISA Tier?
The “tier” system is just a way to categorize visas, and the term “tier” is confusing.
It doesn’t mean that one is easier or harder to get. They’re just numbers to categorize the different types of VISAS, and they’re more meaningful to the UK government than they are to VISA applicants.
The only reason to pay attention to your visa tier is because some are eligible for permanent residency, and some are not. So if you want to live in the UK permanently, make sure you apply for and are eligible for the correct visa.
5 UK Visa Tiers, Explained
Tier 1
Tier 1 visas (which include the Global Talent Visa and the Innovator Visa) are for highly skilled individuals who can make significant contributions to the UK economy.
Most tier 1 Visas allow you to stay a maximum of 3 years and 4 months, with an option to either extend the visa for another 2 years, or to apply for settlement.
Most tier 1 visas are eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (also called ILR, “settlement,” or permanent residency) if they fulfill all requirements.
Tier 2
Tier 2 visas (which include the Skilled Worker Visa) are for skilled workers with a job offer from a UK employer.
Tier 2 visas allow you to stay for a maximum of 5 years & 14 days before you need to either leave or apply for settlement.
Most tier 2 visas are eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain (also called ILR, “settlement,” or permanent residency) if you fulfill all requirements.
Tier 3
Currently there is no Tier 3 UK Visa. Tier 3 visas were originally designed for low-skilled workers, but this tier has never been activated. It’s always possible the UK will activate this pathway in the future.
Tier 4
Tier 4 visas are for international students studying in the UK. Tier 4 visas are not eligible for indefinite leave to remain.
With most tier 4 visas you can stay in the UK for up to 5 years, depending on your degree and program of study.
If you begin life in the UK on a Tier 4 Visa and want to stay, you will have to apply to a different visa category after you finish your studies.
Tier 5
Tier 5 visas include the Youth Mobility Scheme Visa, which is for young people from certain countries, and the Ancestry Visa, which is for Commonwealth citizens with a grandparent born in the UK.
Most tier 5 visas allow you to stay in the UK for 12-24 months. Some Tier 5 visas are eligible for Indefinite Leave to Remain if you fulfill all requirements.
What Type of UK Visa Could I Get?
The most common types of visas for expats in the UK are:
- Skilled Worker Visa (Tier 2): This visa is for skilled workers who have been offered a job by a UK employer. This is definitely the best one, as your employer does most of the heavy lifting to get you into the country, and sometimes you will get a relocation package if your company really wants you in the UK. Check if you’re eligible for a skilled worker visa here.
- Global Talent Visa (Tier 1): This visa is for talented individuals in the fields of science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology, art, and culture. It allows them to work in the UK without needing a job offer.
- Student Visa (tier 4): This visa is for international students who wish to study in the UK. It allows students to stay in the UK for the duration of their course, with options to extend or switch to another visa category after graduation.
- Start-up Visa (tier 1): This visa is for entrepreneurs who want to start a business in the UK. It requires an endorsement from an approved body and allows the applicant to stay in the UK for up to two years.
- Innovator Visa (tier 1): This visa is for experienced entrepreneurs who have an innovative business idea and want to set up or run a business in the UK. It also requires an endorsement and allows the applicant to stay in the UK for up to three years.
- Youth Mobility Scheme Visa (tier 5): This visa is for young people between 18 and 30 years old who want to live and work in the UK for up to two years. It’s available to citizens of certain countries and has a limited number of places available each year.
- Ancestry Visa (tier 5): This visa is for Commonwealth citizens who have a grandparent who was born in the UK. It allows the holder to live and work in the UK for up to five years, with the option to extend or switch to another visa category.
Are you eligible for one of these UK types of visas? If not, consider applying to jobs in the UK and try to get a Skilled Worker Visa.
What are the Eligibility Requirements for a UK Visa?
All UK visas have different requirements. Be sure to check your specific requirements for the UK types of visas you’re eligible for.
Some examples of eligibility requirements are:
- Minimum or maximum age
- A certain balance in your bank account
- Be from an eligible or specific country
- A sponsor (someone who lives and works in the UK and can vouch for you, or a company can sponsor you)
- Signed declaration and agreement you are not entitled to public funds (i.e. you cannot receive any housing or income benefits while living in the UK. NHS healthcare not included in this agreement)
- Pay the NHS surcharge (anywhere from £400 to £3,100 per person, up front)
- A certain degree, accreditation or job
How Long Can I Stay in the UK? Can I Move to the UK Permanently?
To start, make sure you are applying for a visa that has a pathway to IRL (indefinite leave to remain, also called ‘settlement,’ or permanent residency).
Once you’re approved and are living in the UK, there are certain requirements you need to maintain in order to settle here permanently.
For example, you cannot spend more than 180 days out of the country to keep your visa or apply for permanent residency. Check your specific visa to make sure you will be able to settle here, and ensure you follow all the rules.
Can I Live in the UK Without a VISA?
Not for over 6 months, and even then, it’s risky. A standard visitor visa (tourist visa) is valid for 6 months, but on this visa you cannot do paid or unpaid work.
If you do anything that violates the standard visitor visa, you will be deported immediately and you probably won’t be allowed back. Thoroughly check out all of your UK visa options before you travel.
Can I Move to London or the UK Without a Job?
There are some UK visa types that allow you to move here without a job first, but you must meet all requirements. They are:
- British National (Overseas) visa
- Graduate visa
- Youth Mobility Scheme visa
- India Young Professionals Scheme visa
- Apply for the Global Talent visa
- UK Ancestry visa
- High Potential Individual (HPI) visa
What Do I Do Now?
Now that you understand the basics of UK Visa tiers, check to see what you qualify for. You may not qualify for any, and that’s an unfortunate reality of immigration to any country.
If you have found one of the UK types of visas that works for you, and you meet all requirements, congratulations! You’re well on your way to an amazing new life in the UK.
Just keep in mind: the UK types of visas you may be eligible for all have different requirements, both before, during, and after your visa period.
The most important thing is that you do your research, follow all the rules, and ensure that you won’t unknowingly jeopardize your time in the UK. This is an amazing country, but the English are rule-followers, and the British government won’t take kindly to any messing around.
Be mindful of what you’re applying for, make sure you have everything you need, and cross your fingers you can get a UK Visa! It’ll be worth it!
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