Overview of the UK Charity Worker Visa
The UK Charity Worker Visa is designed for those looking to undertake voluntary roles in the UK for up to a year. This visa doesn’t pave the way for permanent residency. However, family members such as partners and children under 18 can apply as dependants.

Eligibility Criteria for the UK Charity Worker Visa
To be considered for the UK Charity Worker Visa, applicants must fulfil the following UK Visas & Immigration conditions:

1. Age should be 18 or above.
2. The charitable activity should meet defined requirements.
3. A valid Certificate of Sponsorship for the role is necessary.
4. Genuine intention and capability to perform the sponsored role are a must.
5. There’s a financial threshold to be met.
6. One shouldn’t have been a Religious or Charity Worker in the UK during the preceding year, unless never present in the UK during that duration.
7. One must not be disqualified under general refusal reasons.
8. TB certification may be obligatory.

Given that the specific requirements can differ based on individual scenarios, consulting an immigration solicitor for specialized advice is recommended.

Note: Before applying, you must have a job proposal for voluntary work from a sponsor approved by the Home Office. We, at Highwood Solicitors, do not arrange job offers or sponsor visa applicants.

Understanding Permissible Voluntary Work under the UK Charity Worker Visa
To be eligible as charity work:

1. It should be voluntary fieldwork directly aligning with the sponsor’s charitable objectives, excluding typical administrative, retail, or fundraising roles.
2. The work should be unpaid, barring reasonable role-related expenses.
3. It shouldn’t replace a permanent job role, even on an interim basis.

Certificate of Sponsorship Essentials for the UK Charity Worker Visa
A valid Certificate of Sponsorship from an ‘A-rated’ Home Office licensed sponsor is vital. The role intended should meet the voluntary work specifications, and the certificate shouldn’t have been previously used in a processed application.

The certificate should be aligned no later than 3 months before application and remains valid for 3 months from assignment. Any application after its expiry might be declined.

Financial Prerequisites for the UK Charity Worker Visa
Unless residing in the UK for over a year with permission, applicants must demonstrate funds of at least £1,270 held consistently for at least 28 days within the preceding 31 days. Alternatively, if the sponsor vouches to provide for you with at least £1,270 for your initial month in the UK, it suffices.

For dependants, the financial criteria are: £285 for a partner, £315 for one child, and £200 for additional children.

Application Process Insights for the UK Charity Worker Visa
Applications should originate outside the UK, without any permission on this or the Religious Worker route in the past year, unless proving absence from the UK. A valid TB certificate might be necessary.

Applications are processed online and necessitate a healthcare surcharge payment. The current fee is £244, with separate fees for dependants. Citizens of certain countries get a £55 discount. Always ensure the visa is renewed before its expiration.

The standard processing time is approximately 3 weeks for applications from outside the UK.

If Your UK Charity Worker Visa Application Faces Rejection
In case of refusal, options include Administrative Review or a new application. Consulting an immigration solicitor for guidance is wise.

Visa Conditions and Duration
Once approved, the visa lets you reside in the UK for up to 12 months or the duration on your sponsorship certificate + 14 days, whichever is shorter. Entry is allowed up to 14 days before your role’s commencement date.

Work is restricted to the sponsored role, but volunteering elsewhere in a similar role is acceptable. Some courses might require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate for study.

How Highwood Solicitors Can Assist
Our proficient team of immigration solicitors is well-versed in diverse visa applications. We excel in providing comprehensive guidance on the immigration pathways for temporary workers, ensuring clarity amidst the intricate Home Office regulations.

At Highwood Solicitors, we prioritize understanding and catering to our client’s needs, offering a blend of professional yet amiable services.

For any inquiries, reach out to us at +44 (0) 1206523714.