Charity Worker Visa (Temporary Work)
Contribute to a Greater Cause in the UK
Volunteer with a registered UK charity in a meaningful, unpaid role — with the ability to travel in and out of the UK during your stay.
What is the Charity Worker Visa?
The Charity Worker Visa allows individuals to come to the UK and undertake unpaid, voluntary work for a licensed charitable organisation. It’s a short-term route for temporary voluntary roles — not paid employment.
Key highlights:
- Stay in the UK for up to 12 months.
- Participate in meaningful charitable work.
- Travel in and out of the UK while your visa is valid.
Big picture
This visa is for volunteering only. Roles must be unpaid and directly further the charity’s objectives.
Eligibility Requirements
You must typically meet the following:
Sponsorship
Offer to volunteer from a UK charity that is a licensed sponsor (Temporary Work).
Certificate of Sponsorship
Your charity must issue a CoS with details of your voluntary role.
Unpaid role
The position is unpaid and aligned to the charity’s objectives.
Funds
Show you can support yourself — typically £1,270 unless your sponsor certifies maintenance.
Genuine volunteer
Your main purpose is to volunteer in the UK.
English
No formal English requirement for this route.
What You Can and Cannot Do
You Can
- Volunteer for your sponsor in the role on your CoS.
- Study part-time (if it doesn’t affect your volunteering).
- Travel in and out of the UK while your visa is valid.
You Cannot
- Take paid employment in the UK.
- Switch to another visa category from within the UK.
- Extend beyond the 12-month limit.
- Claim public funds or benefits.
Application Process
From sponsorship to decision.
1. Certificate of Sponsorship
Get a CoS from your sponsoring charity.
Get a CoS from your sponsoring charity.
2. Prepare documents
Proof of funds, passport, CoS details, TB test (if required).
Proof of funds, passport, CoS details, TB test (if required).
3. Apply online
Submit the application and pay the fee.
Submit the application and pay the fee.
4. Biometrics
Provide fingerprints, photo, and supporting documents.
Provide fingerprints, photo, and supporting documents.
5. Decision
Typically around 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
Typically around 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
Required Documents
Have these ready to keep your application smooth.
- ✅ Valid passport or travel document
- ✅ Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from sponsoring charity
- ✅ Proof of funds — at least £1,270 for 28 days (unless sponsor certifies maintenance)
- ✅ Tuberculosis test results (if required)
- ✅ Any extra documents relevant to your circumstances
How Long Can You Stay?
Up to 12 months total stay.
Or the period on your CoS +14 days — whichever is shorter.
How We Can Help
Expert assistance for applicants and sponsoring charities.
Eligibility assessment — confirm role, sponsor and route.
Document preparation — correct evidence and forms.
Application submission — strong, compliant filings.
Post-approval support — travel and settling in the UK.
Why Choose Us?
Focused, transparent, and experienced with charity visas.
Experienced immigration advisors
Tailored solutions for applicants & sponsors
Proven track record
Transparent fees
Start Your Charitable Journey in the UK
The Charity Worker Visa lets you make a meaningful difference while experiencing life in the UK. We’ll guide you through every step with clarity and care.
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