Introduction to the International Sportsperson Visa

The International Sportsperson Visa allows UK employers to recruit world-class athletes and coaches from abroad, including professional sports clubs, organisations, and governing bodies. This specialist visa ensures that internationally recognised sporting talent can contribute to British sports while fully complying with UK immigration laws.

For sports organisations seeking to hire premier players or elite coaches, this visa provides a structured, legal pathway to bring exceptional talent to the United Kingdom.

Who Can Apply for the International Sportsperson Visa?

This specialised visa category is available for:

1.   Elite sportspersons with a proven track record in international competitions
2.   Professional coaches who can demonstrably enhance the UK’s sporting standards and development programmes
3.   Sporting professionals who have secured an endorsement from the relevant UK sports governing body

To qualify, applicants must receive formal endorsement from their respective UK sports governing body, confirming that their unique skills and experience will significantly contribute to the development and growth of UK sports.

Why UK Employers Need This Visa

Recruiting exceptional sporting talent is essential for maintaining competitiveness in professional sports. The International Sportsperson Visa helps British clubs and sporting organisations:

1.   Legally employ top-tier sports talent from outside the UK
2.   Maintain full Compliance with UK immigration laws to avoid potential legal complications
3.   Enhance their teams by bringing in internationally renowned players or coaches
4.   Strengthen development and training programmes with world-class coaching expertise
5.   Build more competitive teams capable of success in domestic and international competitions

Key Benefits for UK Sports Employers

The International Sportsperson Visa provides numerous advantages for UK employers:

1.   Access to global talent pool: Recruit the finest international sporting talent without legal complications
2.   Long-term employment options: Visa validity of up to 3 years, with options for extension
3.   Streamlined sponsorship process: Efficient application process for employers holding a valid Sponsorship Licence
4.   Clear recruitment pathway: Well-defined procedures for international recruitment in professional sports
5.   Competitive advantage: Ability to strengthen teams with world-class international talent

Eligibility Criteria for Employers

To successfully sponsor a sportsperson or coach, UK employers must:

1.   Hold a valid Sponsorship Licence specifically for the International Sportsperson category
2.   Provide a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to the applicant with all required details
3.   Ensure the job role meets both salary requirements and skills thresholds
4.   Adhere to UKVI (UK Visas and Immigration) compliance regulations and reporting duties

Failure to meet these criteria may result in visa application refusals or, in severe cases, sponsorship licence revocation.

Eligibility Criteria for Sportspersons

For a successful application, the sportsperson must:

1.   Secure a formal endorsement from the relevant UK sports governing body
2.   Be recognised as an internationally established athlete or coach at the highest level
3.   Demonstrate that their employment will make a significant contribution to UK sports development
4.   Meet or exceed the minimum salary threshold established by UKVI for their contract length

Endorsement Requirements

Before applying for the visa, sportspersons must get an endorsement from the UK governing body for their sport. This endorsement confirms that:

1.   The person is known internationally for their sport
2.   Their job is vital for UK sports development
3.   They meet the salary and experience requirements
4.   They satisfy all the criteria set by the governing body

Each sport has its own governing body with specific endorsement criteria. For example, football players need endorsement from The Football Association, while cricket players require approval from the England and Wales Cricket Board.

To get an endorsement, the sportsperson usually needs to provide:

1.   Evidence of their international career
2.   Proof they’ve played in essential competitions
3.   Records of their achievements and recognition
4.   Details of how they’ll help develop the sport in the UK

The governing body will assess all evidence carefully before deciding whether to endorse the application. Without this endorsement, the visa application cannot proceed.

Sponsorship Requirements for Employers

UK sports organisations must meet several key requirements to sponsor international talent:

1. Valid Sponsorship Licence

You must have an active Sponsorship Licence specifically for the International Sportsperson category. This licence shows the Home Office that you’re a trusted employer who can manage the sponsorship process properly.

2. Certificate of Sponsorship

You must issue an accurate Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) to each applicant with complete details about:

1.   The exact job role and responsibilities
2.   Work location
3.   Salary and benefits
4.   Contract length
5.   Details of the governing body endorsement

3. Record-Keeping

You must keep detailed records for each sponsored sportsperson, including:

1.   Attendance records
2.   Contact details
3.   Copy of their passport
4.   Right-to-work documents
5.   Pay records
6.   Evidence of qualifications

These records must be available for inspection by Home Office compliance officers at any time.

4. Reporting Duties

You must report certain events to the Home Office, including if the sportsperson:

1.   Doesn’t start work on the expected date
2.   Misses work for more than 10 consecutive days without permission
3.   Changes job role or location
4.   Leaves employment early
5.   Has significant changes to their circumstances

How to Become a Licensed Sponsor

To sponsor international sportspersons, your organisation must first become a licensed sponsor:

Step 1: Prepare Your Organisation

Before applying, make sure your organisation:

1.   Is a legitimate sports organisation operating in the UK
2.   Has proper HR systems to track sponsored workers
3.   Has appointed key personnel to manage sponsorship duties
4.   Is ready to comply with all sponsor duties

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need to provide several documents with your application, such as:

1.   Proof of your organisation’s status (incorporation documents)
2.   Evidence of your sporting activities
3.   Bank statements or financial records
4.   Proof of your premises
5.   Organisational chart
6.   Evidence of previous recruitment activities

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Visit the UK Visas and Immigration online portal to:

1.   Fill in the application form
2.   Pay the application fee 
3.   Submit all supporting documents within five working days

Step 4: Home Office Assessment

The Home Office will:

1.   Review your application and documents
2.   May conduct a pre-licence compliance visit to your premises
3.   Assess if your organisation is suitable to be a sponsor

Step 5: Licence Approval

If approved, your organisation will:

1.   Receive a licence valid for 4 years
2.   Get access to the Sponsor Management System (SMS)
3.   Be able to issue Certificates of Sponsorship to sportspersons

The typical processing time for licence applications is 8 weeks, though a priority service is available for an additional fee.

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) Requirements

The Certificate of Sponsorship is a crucial electronic document that must be assigned to each applicant before they can apply for their visa.

Types of CoS

There are two types of CoS:

1.   Defined CoS: For applicants who are outside the UK
2.   Undefined CoS: For applicants already in the UK who are extending or switching visa categories

How to Assign a CoS

To assign a CoS, you must:

1.   Log in to the Sponsor Management System (SMS)
2.   Request a CoS allocation if needed
3.   Complete all required fields about the role and the sportsperson
4.   Include details of the governing body endorsement
5.   Provide clear information about the job role, location and salary
6.   Confirm the role meets all visa requirements
7.   Pay the CoS fee

What Must Be Included on the CoS

Your CoS must contain:

1.   Sportsperson’s details (name, nationality, passport number)
2.   Job title and complete description of duties
3.   Work location
4.   Salary and benefits package
5.   Contract length
6.   Governing body endorsement reference number
7.   Confirmation that the role meets the skill and salary requirements
8.   Your organisation’s Sponsor Licence number

Each COS has a unique reference number that the applicant will use in their visa application. The COS is valid for three months from the issue date, and the applicant must apply for a visa during this period.

 

Sport-Specific Requirements

It’s important to note that many sports have their salary requirements that exceed these minimum thresholds:

1.   Premier League football has significantly higher minimum salary requirements
2.   First-class cricket has specific salary bands based on experience
3.   Elite rugby has its salary structure based on competition level

Salary Package Considerations

When calculating whether a role meets the minimum salary threshold, you can include:

1.   Basic salary
2.   Guaranteed bonuses
3.   Accommodation allowances (up to a maximum value)

You cannot include:

1.   Performance-related bonuses that aren’t guaranteed
2.   Benefits in kind (except accommodation)
3.   Overtime payments

Special Exceptions

In rare cases, governing bodies may support applications that don’t meet the minimum salary requirements if:

1.   The sportsperson is considered to be an exceptional talent crucial to the development
2.   There are special circumstances that justify a lower salary
3.   The sponsorship is part of a specific development programme

These exceptions require special approval from the governing body and are assessed case-by-case.

Application Process for Employers

The step-by-step process for employing international sportspersons involves the following:

1. Initial Assessment

1.   Confirm the role meets all requirements for the visa
2.   Check that the sportsperson meets the eligibility criteria
3.   Verify that the salary meets or exceeds the minimum threshold

2. Secure Governing Body Endorsement

1.   Support the sportsperson in obtaining endorsement from the relevant UK sports governing body
2.   Provide all necessary evidence of their international status
3.   Obtain the formal endorsement letter or reference number

3. Sponsorship Licence Application (if not already held)

1.   Apply for a Sponsorship Licence
2.   Provide all required supporting documents
3.   Pay the licence fee
4.   Undergo any compliance checks

4. Certificate of Sponsorship Assignment

1.   Request CoS allocation if needed
2.   Issue a comprehensive Certificate of Sponsorship with all required details
3.   Pay the CoS fee
4.   Provide the CoS reference number to the applicant

5. Support the Visa Application

1.   Help the sportsperson gather necessary documents, which typically include:
2.   Valid passport
3.   Governing body endorsement
4.   CoS reference number
5.   Evidence of English language ability (if required)
6.   Tuberculosis test results (if from certain countries)
7.   Proof of maintenance funds (if needed)

6. Application Submission

1.   Guide the sportsperson through the online application process
2.   Ensure they pay the visa application fee
3.   Help them pay the Immigration Health Surcharge
4.   Assist with booking a biometric appointment

7. Post-Application Support

1.   Track the application progress
2.   Respond promptly to any requests for additional information
3.   Prepare for the sportsperson’s arrival in the UK

8. Onboarding Process

1.   Conduct right-to-work checks before employment begins
2.   Set up proper record-keeping systems
3.   Ensure the sportsperson understands their visa conditions
4.   Register the start of employment with UKVI

Employer Responsibilities After Sponsorship

Once you’ve successfully sponsored a sportsperson, your ongoing duties include:

1. Record Keeping

Maintain comprehensive records for each sponsored sportsperson, including:

1.   Copy of passport photo page and visa/BRP
2.   Contact details in the UK
3.   Attendance and absence records
4.   History of pay and salary changes
5.   Evidence of qualifications and endorsements
6.   Up-to-date UK address

These records must be kept throughout the sponsorship period and for at least 12 months afterwards.

2. Reporting Changes

You must report specific changes to UKVI within 10 working days, including if the sportsperson:

1.   Doesn’t start work on the expected date
2.   Is absent from work for more than 10 consecutive days without permission
3.   Changes job title, duties, salary or location
4.   Has their contract terminated early
5.   Switches to a different immigration category
6.   Has significant changes to their circumstances (e.g., criminal convictions)

3. Monitoring Attendance

Implement systems to:

1.   Track daily Attendance
2.   Record and authorise absences
3.   Flag unauthorised absences
4.   Monitor patterns of behaviour that may indicate non-compliance

4. Maintaining Compliance

Ensure ongoing Compliance by:

1.   Conducting regular internal audits of your sponsorship processes
2.   Keeping up-to-date with changes to immigration rules
3.   Training relevant staff on sponsor duties
4.   Preparing for potential compliance visits from UKVI

5. Renewal and Extension Support

Provide support when it’s time to:

1.   Extend the sportsperson’s visa
2.   Apply for settlement after 5 years (if applicable)
3.   Switch to a different visa category
4.   Return home at the end of the contract

6. Termination Procedures

If the sponsorship ends early:

1.   Report to UKVI within 10 working days
2.   Explain the reasons for early termination
3.   Maintain records of all communications regarding the termination
4.   Follow proper HR procedures in line with UK employment law

How to Maintain Compliance

Maintaining Compliance is crucial for preserving your ability to sponsor international talent:

1. Implement Robust HR Systems

1.   Use specialised HR software to track sponsored workers
2.   Set up automated reminders for visa expiry dates
3.   Create comprehensive employee files for each sponsored sportsperson
4.   Establish transparent processes for recording Attendance and absences

2. Regular Internal Audits

1.   Conduct quarterly reviews of all sponsored worker records
2.   Verify that all required documents are up-to-date
3.   Check that job roles match what was stated on the CoS
4.   Ensure salary levels continue to meet requirements
5.   Confirm that reporting obligations have been met

3. Staff Training

1.   Provide regular training for HR staff on sponsorship duties
2.   Ensure key personnel understand their legal responsibilities
3.   Keep relevant staff updated on changes to immigration rules
4.   Create clear guidance documents for handling different scenarios

4. Compliance Visits

Prepare for potential UKVI compliance visits by:

1.   Maintaining organised records that can be easily accessed
2.   Having a designated person ready to manage the visit
3.   Conducting mock compliance visits to identify potential issues
4.   Ensuring sponsored workers understand what might be asked of them

5. Stay Informed

1.   Subscribe to Home Office updates and newsletters
2.   Join relevant sports industry forums that discuss immigration matters
3.   Consider working with immigration specialists to stay updated
4.   Review the sponsor guidance documents regularly

6. Technology Solutions

1.   Use digital record-keeping systems with proper backup procedures
2.   Implement secure document storage that meets GDPR requirements
3.   Utilise calendar reminders for key dates and reporting deadlines
4.   Consider compliance management software designed explicitly for sponsors

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to meet your sponsorship obligations can have serious consequences:

Financial Penalties

1.   Civil penalties of up to £20,000 per illegal worker
2.   Fines for failing to report changes or keep proper records
3.   Recovery of any public funds spent on returning workers to their home countries

Licence Downgrading

If minor compliance issues are identified, your licence may be downgraded to a ‘B-rating’, which means:

1.   You must follow an action plan to correct issues
2.   You cannot issue new CoS while B-rated
3.   You must pay for and complete an action plan
4.   Your licence will be revoked if you don’t improve within 3 months

Licence Suspension

If serious concerns arise, your licence may be suspended while UKVI investigates:

1.   You cannot assign new CoS during suspension
2.   Existing applications will be put on hold
3.   You must address all issues within 20 working days

Licence Revocation

The most severe penalty is licence revocation, which means:

1.   Your licence is cancelled completely
2.   All sponsored workers will have their visas curtailed to 60 days
3.   You cannot sponsor any new workers
4.   You cannot apply for a new licence for at least 12 months
5.   Your organisation’s details may be published on the Home Office’s list of revoked sponsors

Reputational Damage

Beyond formal penalties, non-compliance can cause:

1.   Negative media coverage affecting your sports brand
2.   Difficulty attracting top talent in future
3.   Loss of trust from fans and stakeholders
4.   Potential impact on commercial partnerships and sponsorships

Criminal Prosecution

In cases of deliberate fraud or severe abuse:

1.   Key personnel may face criminal charges
2.   Directors could face disqualification
3.   Prison sentences are possible for knowingly employing illegal workers

Extending or Switching the Visa

Visa Extensions

The International Sportsperson Visa can be extended if:

1.   The sportsperson continues to be endorsed by the governing body
2.   They remain employed by a licensed sponsor
3.   The role still meets salary requirements
4.   They have complied with all visa conditions

To extend the visa:

1.   Obtain a new endorsement from the governing body
2.   Issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship
3.   Submit the extension application before the current visa expires
4.   Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge
5.   Provide updated supporting documents

Extensions can be granted to a maximum total stay of 5 years.

Switching to Other Visa Categories

Sponsored sportspersons may be eligible to switch to other visa categories, such as:

Global Talent Visa

1.   For those recognised as exceptional talent in their sport
2.   Offers more flexibility as no sponsorship is required
3.   Requires endorsement from a different body

Skilled Worker Visa

1.   For those moving to a non-sporting role that meets requirements
2.   Requires sponsorship from an employer with the appropriate licence
3.   Must meet different salary thresholds

UK Ancestry Visa

1.   For Commonwealth citizens with a UK-born grandparent
2.   Valid for 5 years with a pathway to settlement
3.   No sponsorship required

Settlement (Indefinite Leave to Remain)

After 5 years of continuous lawful residence, sportspersons may be eligible for settlement if they:

1.   Have spent no more than 180 days outside the UK in any 12 months
2.   Pass the Life in the UK test
3.   Meet the English language requirement
4.   Continue to meet salary thresholds
5.   Remain endorsed by their governing body (in some cases)

The application for settlement must be made before the current visa expires.

Family Members

Dependants of International Sportspersons can:

1.   Apply to extend their visas alongside the principal applicant
2.   Switch to other visa categories if eligible
3.   Apply for settlement after 5 years

Cooling-Off Period

Unlike some other visa categories, there is no cooling-off period for International Sportsperson visas, meaning that:

1.   Sportspersons can reapply immediately after a previous visa expires
2.   They don’t need to leave the UK before applying again
3.   They can continue with a new sponsor without interruption if proper procedures are followed

How Davenport Solicitors Can Help

At Davenport Solicitors, our specialist immigration team offers expert legal services tailored specifically for sports organisations seeking to recruit international talent. Our services include:

1.   Comprehensive guidance on the Sponsorship Licence application process
2.   Support with Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) issuance and management
3.   Expert advice on maintaining Compliance with UKVI requirements
4.   Assistance with visa applications for sponsored sportspersons
5.   Guidance on extensions, settlements and visa switches
6.   Troubleshooting complex immigration issues
7.   Dedicated account management from a specialist sports immigration solicitor

Sponsorship Licence Support

1.   Pre-licence assessment to identify potential issues
2.   Preparation of all necessary documentation
3.   Guidance on appointing appropriate key personnel
4.   Completion and submission of the licence application
5.   Preparation for compliance visits
6.   Assistance with licence renewal after 4 years

Day-to-Day Sponsorship Management

1.   Training for HR teams on sponsorship duties
2.   Regular compliance audits to ensure continued Compliance
3.   Support with using the Sponsor Management System
4.   Guidance on record-keeping best practices
5.   Advice on reporting requirements and deadlines

Certificate of Sponsorship Assistance

1.   Help with requesting CoS allocations
2.   Guidance on completing all required CoS fields
3.   Assistance with assigning CoS to sportspersons
4.   Support with any issues or errors

Visa Application Support

1.   Comprehensive guidance for both the employer and sportsperson
2.   Document checking service to ensure all requirements are met
3.   Assistance with completing application forms
4.   Support throughout the application process
5.   Help with responding to any Home Office queries

Problem-Solving

1.   Advice on complex cases or unusual circumstances
2.   Support with challenging visa refusals
3.   Assistance with compliance issues
4.   Help with licence suspensions or downgrading
5.   Guidance on managing visa curtailments

Our team of immigration experts has successfully supported numerous sports clubs, from Premier League football clubs to county cricket teams, in navigating the complexities of the UK immigration system.

Contact our dedicated sports immigration team today for personalised advice tailored to your organisation’s requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly is the International Sportsperson Visa?

The International Sportsperson Visa is a specialised immigration category that enables UK employers to sponsor elite athletes and coaches to work in the United Kingdom. Applicants must be endorsed by the relevant UK sports governing body, confirming their status as internationally recognised talent.

2. Which sporting professionals can apply for this visa?

Professional athletes and coaches who have achieved international recognition in their sporting discipline and have secured formal endorsement from a UK governing body are eligible to apply. The applicant must demonstrate that they will contribute meaningfully to developing their sport in the UK.

3. Is a Sponsorship Licence mandatory for hiring international sporting talent?

All UK employers must hold a valid Sponsorship Licence specifically for the International Sportsperson category to issue prospective applicants a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). Without this licence, organisations cannot legally sponsor international sportspersons.

4. What is the validity period for this visa?

The visa can be granted for up to 3 years, with options to extend to 5 years. Applicants with contracts shorter than 12 months are subject to different salary requirements and conditions.

5. What are the current salary requirements for this visa category?

The Minimum salary is £23,200 per annum for contracts less than 12 months. For contracts of 12 months or longer, the Minimum wage is £37,800 per annum. These thresholds represent the minimum requirements and may be higher depending on the specific sport and the governing body’s established criteria.

6. How do sports organisations apply for a Sponsorship Licence?

Employers must submit a comprehensive application to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), provide all required supporting documentation, pay the applicable fees, and demonstrate their capability to fulfil all sponsorship responsibilities and compliance duties.

7. What is the typical processing timeframe for visa applications?

Standard processing typically takes 3 to 8 weeks from submission. Priority services are available for faster processing (additional fees apply). Where available, super-priority services can provide decisions within 24 hours.

8. Can the International Sportsperson Visa be extended?

The visa can be extended if the sportsperson or coach meets all eligibility requirements and maintains ongoing sponsorship from a licensed UK employer. Extensions may be granted to a maximum total stay of 5 years.

9. What are the consequences if an employer fails to meet their sponsorship obligations?

Non-compliance can result in significant penalties, including substantial fines, suspension or revocation of the Sponsorship Licence, which would severely impact the employer’s ability to hire and retain international sporting talent.

10. Can a sportsperson work for multiple employers on this visa?

Yes, but each employer must have their Sponsorship Licence and issue their Certificate of Sponsorship. The sportsperson must ensure they don’t breach the conditions of their visa, such as working more hours than permitted across multiple employers.

11. What happens if a sponsored sportsperson is injured long-term?

You must continue to meet your sponsorship obligations during periods of injury. The sportsperson remains employed, and their salary must still meet requirements. If the injury will prevent them from fulfilling their duties for an extended period, seek legal advice about your options.

12. Can semi-professional or amateur clubs sponsor international sportspersons?

Yes, provided they meet all the requirements for holding a Sponsorship Licence. However, they must still ensure the role meets minimum salary requirements and obtain the necessary endorsement from the governing body.

13. Is there an English language requirement for this visa?

There is no formal English language requirement for most sports. However, some governing bodies may include English proficiency as endorsement criteria, particularly for coaching positions where communication is essential.

14. Can sportspersons bring family members to the UK?

Yes, sponsored sportspersons can bring dependant family members (spouse/partner and children under 18) to the UK. Family members can work or study in the UK without restriction but must apply for their dependant visas.

15. What happens if a sportsperson wants to change employers?

They can change to another licensed sponsor but must obtain the following:

1.   A new endorsement from the governing body
2.   A new Certificate of Sponsorship from the new employer
3.   Approval for the change from UKVI

The new employer must have a valid Sponsorship Licence for the International Sportsperson category.

16. Are there any travel restrictions with this visa?

Sportspersons can travel freely in and out of the UK while awaiting the validity of their visa. However, excessive absences (more than 180 days in 12 months) may affect future settlement applications.

17. Can this visa lead to permanent residence in the UK?

After 5 years of continuous lawful residence, sportspersons may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanent residence), provided they meet all the requirements.

18. What if the governing body withdraws endorsement during the visa period?

If a governing body withdraws endorsement during the visa period, the sponsor must report this to UKVI. The sportsperson’s visa may be curtailed, limiting them to finding a new sponsor or leaving the UK.

19. Can sportspersons study while on this visa?

Yes, they can undertake part-time or full-time study alongside their sporting duties, provided their primary purpose remains working as a sportsperson.

20. Is there a limit on how many international sportspersons a club can sponsor?

UKVI does not impose a specific limit. However, some sports governing bodies limit the number of international players a team can field in competitions, which may indirectly limit sponsorship numbers.