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The Tier 2 Sportsperson visa is for elite sportspersons or qualified coaches that are sponsored on long-term contracts to make significant contributions to the development of the sport at the highest level in the UK and have a Governing Body Endorsement from the relevant Sports Governing Body. 

The category will apply to EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals that are not already residing in the UK by 31st December 2020. 

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What are the main requirements?

You can apply under this category if you are an elite sportsperson or a qualified coach who is recognised by the relevant sport’s governing body as being at the highest level of your profession internationally. You will need to show that: 

  • The relevant governing body for your sport is endorsing your application 
  • You have been assigned a CoS by your sponsor 
  • Your employment in the UK will develop the sport at the highest level 
  • Meet the English language requirement 

What is the maximum length I can remain in the UK?

You will initially be granted a visa for up to 3 years or the duration specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship plus 14 days. You can apply to extend your visa from within the UK for up to a further 3 years. You cannot remain in the UK for longer than 6 years in this category. 

You may be able to apply for indefinite leave to remain in the UK once you have completed 5 years residence in the UK. 

How do I apply?

Your application is submitted online whether you are applying from outside the UK, applying from within the UK to extend your visa, or switching to this category from within the UK. 

You can include your partner and dependent children in your application for permission to stay with you. 

Speak to our business immigration experts

If you are exploring your options for a visa or require international business advice, our highly experienced solicitors will assist you in exploring all your options. We advise businesses and individuals, including executives and senior management teams on all aspects of business immigration including visas. You can get in touch by completing the form below.

Click here to view our Business Immigration Services Pricing

Key Contact

Adam Haines

Adam Haines

Employment Law and Business Immigration Partner


Adam is a partner and specialist employment lawyer with experience advising on all aspects of employment law from the beginning to the end of the employment relationship and business immigration.

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