The UK Overseas Domestic Worker Visa facilitates domestic professionals seeking employment opportunities in the UK alongside their current employers, albeit for a short term.

Highwood Solicitors presents a comprehensive breakdown of the essentials, eligibility, and nuances of the Overseas Domestic Worker Visa for the UK:

Essential Overview:

• This visa is exclusively for domestic workers aiming to serve in the UK with their present employer for a duration not exceeding 6 months.
• This visa type does not offer a pathway to UK settlement, and family dependents cannot accompany the primary applicant.

Eligibility Criteria for the Visa:

To qualify, you must ensure you meet the following stipulations set by UK Visas & Immigration:

• Minimum age requirement of 19.
• Proof of employment as a domestic worker for a year or more leading up to your application date.
• Residency with your employer or in their routinely used residence for at least 12 months prior to applying.
• Written agreement detailing your UK employment terms.
• Assurance that you’ll serve your employer during their UK stay.
• Guaranteed payment equivalent to or above the UK National Minimum Wage.
• Plans to journey to the UK with:
• A British employer or their direct British family member, given the employer resides predominantly outside the UK and the companion aims to stay in the UK for no more than half a year.
• A non-British employer or their family, provided they possess or are seeking a Visitor Visa (excluding study purposes).
• Commitment to depart the UK either post 6 months or alongside your employer, whichever comes first.
• No intention to reside extensively in the UK via repeated visits or to make the UK your primary residence.
• Assurance of self-sustainability without relying on public resources.
• Adherence to all general grounds for refusal.

To ensure you satisfy all parameters, consider seeking advice from an immigration solicitor.

Understanding an Overseas Domestic Worker:

The Immigration Rules don’t distinctly define an ‘overseas domestic worker’. But, according to Home Office guidelines, roles such as cleaners, cooks, chauffeurs, nannies, and those offering personal services to an employer’s family fall within this category.

Documentation for Visa Application:

Submission of thorough evidence, including employment letters, contracts, payslips, and written employment terms, is crucial. It’s recommended to liaise with an immigration solicitor for a tailored document checklist.

Visa Duration:

Successful applications grant a 6-month stay, expecting your departure before visa expiry or when your employer leaves.

Stay Conditions:

Under this visa:

• Your work is limited to domestic roles.
• Other forms of employment are prohibited.
• Access to public funds is restricted.

Switching Employers and Visa Route:

While visa holders can switch employers within the visa’s valid period, transitioning into the Overseas Domestic Worker route from within the UK is not permitted. All applications must originate from outside the UK.

Visa Extensions & Settlement:

Extensions and settlements via this visa route are unavailable.

Visa Rejections:

In case of visa refusal, an Administrative Review might be an option. Connect with an immigration solicitor for expert guidance.

How Highwood Solicitors Can Assist:

Our adept team of immigration solicitors offers unparalleled expertise in diverse visa applications, including the Overseas Domestic Worker Visa. At Highwood Solicitors, we prioritize our clients, ensuring transparent, reliable, and dedicated services at every step.

To discuss your visa needs further, contact Highwood Solicitors at +44 (0) 1206523714 or fill out our enquiry form.