Tier 5 (Temporary worker - charity workers)
This section explains how you can come to the UK or remain here under the Tier 5 (Temporary workers - charity workers) sub-category of the points-based system.
On this page
What is the charity worker sub-category?
This sub-category is for people coming to the UK to do voluntary (unpaid) work for a charity. The work must be directly related to the work of your sponsor's organisation.
Who can apply as a charity worker?
Before you apply under Tier 5 (Temporary workers - charity workers), you must have:
- a sponsor; and
- a valid certificate of sponsorship.
When you apply, you will be awarded points based on your sponsorship and available maintenance (funds).
You can make an application if:
- you are currently outside the UK; or
- you are already here in the Tier 5 (Temporary workers - charity workers) sub-category and you want to extend your stay (up to a maximum total stay of 12 months - see below).
If you are already in the UK in a different immigration category, you cannot apply to 'switch' into the Tier 5 (Temporary workers - charity workers) sub-category.
How long can you stay?
If we give you permission to come to the UK under Tier 5 (Temporary workers - charity workers), you can live and work here for a maximum time of 12 months or the time given in your certificate of sponsorship plus 28 days, whichever is shorter.
This time must begin no more than 14 days before the start date given on your certificate of sponsorship.
If you need to be able to go from and return to the UK for your job
If you will need to leave and come back to the UK quite often as part of your job, your sponsor can assign a multiple entry certificate of sponsorship to you. You will be able to enter and leave the UK during the time when you have permission to live and work here.
If you have permission to come (entry clearance) for any length of time, you will be able to leave and come back to the UK during the time you have permission.
If you leave the UK and you were given permission to stay for 6 months or less, and did not have a visa (known as 'entry clearance'), your permission to stay will end when you leave the UK.
Application forms
Tier 5 (Temporary worker) - policy guidance
- Tier 5 (Temporary worker) policy guidance. PDF 483KB opens in a new window
Tier 5 (Temporary worker) - for applications made inside the UK
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Terms explained
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Non-visa national
A non-visa national is a national or citizen of any country that is NOT listed in Appendix 1 of the immigration rules (nationals of countries listed in Appendix 1 are visa nationals). A non-visa national does not need a visa to come to the United Kingdom for less than six months, unless it is a requirement of the immigration category under which they are entering. A non-visa national coming to the United Kingdom for more than six months will need a visa.