A complete list of visas for the United Kingdom is available on the UK Government website.
The content published by the Italian Embassy in London on the topic of entry visas to the United Kingdom is for informational purposes only and has no legal value.
The Italian Embassy cannot provide assistance with the issuance of entry visas for the United Kingdom, which remains the exclusive responsibility of the British authorities.
WORKERS
From 1 January 2021, EU citizens intending to travel to the United Kingdom for work must apply for a visa in accordance with the procedures established under the Points-Based System provided for by the competent British authorities.
Frontier workers
EU citizens who, as of 31 December 2020, resided in another country but were – and continue to be – employed or self-employed in the United Kingdom may apply for a Frontier Worker permit.
The Frontier Worker permit allows entry into the country to continue carrying out work activities; however, unlike Settled Status under the EU Settlement Scheme, it does not lead to the acquisition of “indefinite leave to remain” and, although renewable, it remains valid only for as long as the individual retains frontier worker status.
Work Visa or Skilled Worker Visa
This visa is intended for skilled workers who have received a job offer from a UK-based company duly registered with the Home Office.
For further information on the requirements for obtaining this visa, the professions eligible under UK Government rules, and the minimum salary thresholds provided for under UK law, please refer to the official Home Office website: Skilled Worker visa: Overview – GOV.UK.
Those intending to work in the healthcare sector may apply for the Health and Care visa.
Specialist Worker visa (Global Business Mobility)
This visa allows the transfer of personnel within multinational companies operating across different jurisdictions and/or between different branches of the same organisation. In this case as well, a certificate of sponsorship issued by a sponsor duly authorised by the Home Office is required.
Temporary Work
This visa category includes a number of different routes (see further details below). The requirements depend on the type of temporary employment. In all cases, sponsorship by a UK employer is required.
- Charity Worker visa: a visa allowing unpaid voluntary work for an organisation (which acts as sponsor). It is valid for a maximum of 12 months.
- Creative Worker visa: intended for creative workers (for example: actor, dancer, musician, or film crew member). Sponsorship by an employer for work related to one’s profession is required. It is valid for up to 12 months but may be extended.
- International Sportsperson visa: a visa for sports professionals. Sponsorship by a UK employer is also required in this case.
- Government Authorised Exchange visa: intended for those travelling to the United Kingdom for short-term work experience or training through a scheme authorised by the UK Government. An offer from a sponsor is required. The visa may be granted for up to 12 or 24 months.
- International Agreement visa: intended for employees of a foreign government or an international organisation carrying out work in the United Kingdom.
- Religious Worker visa: intended for those wishing to undertake religious work. The maximum duration of this visa is two years.
- Seasonal Worker visa: intended for those wishing to undertake agricultural work. Sponsorship is also required for this visa.
Global Talent Visa
The Global Talent visa is aimed at leaders, or potential leaders, in fields such as science, humanities, engineering, the arts (including film, fashion, design, and architecture), and digital technology.
Innovator Founder Visa
The Innovator Founder visa is intended for individuals wishing to establish an innovative business in the United Kingdom for the first time. The requirements for obtaining this visa are listed on the Home Office website.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
I need to travel to the United Kingdom to look for work. Can I apply for a visa once I arrive?
No. It is possible to enter the United Kingdom without a visa to attend job interviews within the 6-month visa-free period; however, it is not currently possible to submit a work visa application after entering the United Kingdom as a visitor. A work visa must be obtained before arrival in the United Kingdom.
I previously worked in the United Kingdom, I have a NIN and a bank account, but the company I contacted cannot act as a sponsor. Can I still enter the country to work?
Holding only a job offer, a National Insurance Number (NIN), or a UK bank account is not sufficient for entry into the United Kingdom for work purposes. You must obtain a job offer from an employer holding a sponsor licence issued by the Home Office.
I need to travel to the United Kingdom for a short business trip. Do I need a visa?
For short business trips (so-called Business Trips), it may not be necessary to apply for a visa. Please refer to the Home Office website for further details.