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Applying for an International Sportsperson Visa

11th November 2025

 Step-by-Step Guide to the UK International Sportsperson Visa

If you are a sportsperson, athlete or coach aiming to live and work in the UK, the International Sportsperson visa is your primary route. 

This specialist temporary visa is designed to attract top-level athletes and coaches to the UK and allows sports professionals with international recognition to work, reside and compete in the UK. 

 
Understand the Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the International Sportsperson visa, you must:

  • Be 16 years or older
  • Have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from a UK-based sponsor with a valid sponsor licence.
  • Obtain an endorsement from a recognised governing body in your sport, confirming your elite status and contribution to the sport in the UK.
  • Meet the English language requirement (level A1 in speaking and listening) if applying for a visa longer than 12 months. 
  • Demonstrate you can maintain and accommodate yourself in the UK, either through personal savings (£1,270 minimum for 28 days) or a sponsor guarantee. 
 
Securing a Governing Body Endorsement (GBE)

Each sport has its own governing body responsible for issuing endorsements. These bodies assess your achievements and potential contribution to the sport in the UK. Contact the relevant body early to understand their specific requirements and timelines.

  1. Identify the governing body https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-sports-governing-bodies
  2. Contact them to understand their application process.
  3. Prepare your portfolio (international results, awards, references, etc). 
  4. Submit your application following their guidelines.
  5. Receive the endorsement letter or certificate which must be valid for submission with your visa application. 
 
Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Your UK sponsor, such as a sports club or organisation, must issue you a CoS. This document 

  • Confirms your job offer
  • Details your role, salary, and employment conditions 
  • Is essential for your visa application
 
Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents for your application: 

  • A valid passport or travel document.
  • The Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable).
  • Evidence of maintenance funds (bank statements or sponsor’s guarantee).
  • The endorsement letter from your sport’s governing body
 
Application Process
  1. Apply online via the UK government website. 
  2. Fill in personal info, job details and endorsement info. 
  3. Upload documents: include endorsements, CoS, financial proof, English proficiency, passport. 
  4. Pay fees: £319 (up to 12 months) or £769-£885 (over 12 months), plus Immigration Healthcare Surcharge (£1,035/year).
  5. Review and submit, receive a reference number. 
  6. Verify identity by biometric appointment or UK Immigration ID Check app. 
 
Immigration Skills Charge Exemption

Individuals applying via this route are now exempt from the UK’s Immigration Skills Charge (ISC).

The exemption includes not only elite sportspeople but also those in supporting roles such as coaches, instructors, and officials.

 
Await a Decision

Processing times vary:

  • Outside the UK: Typically within 3 weeks.
  • Inside the UK: Usually within 8 weeks.

You may be eligible to pay for a faster decision.

 
After Your Visa is Granted

With the International Sportsperson visa, you can: 

  • Work for your sponsor in the specified role.
  • Engage in voluntary work.
  • Study, provided it doesn’t interfere with your sponsored role.
  • Travel abroad and return to the UK.
  • Bring eligible dependents (partner and children) with you.

The visa is initially valid for up to 3 years. After 5 years, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), allowing permanent settlement in the UK.

Visa holders cannot claim public funds, start or run a business.

 
Tips for a Successful Application
  • Start Early: Begin the process well in advance to accommodate time for endorsements and document preparation.
  • Stay Informed: Regularly check the official UK government website for any updates or changes to the visa requirements.
  • Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with an immigration solicitor or advisor to navigate the application process smoothly.

For more detailed information, visit the official UK government page on the International Sportsperson visa: Overview – GOV.UK

FAQ'S

Find out More

Yes, but you must obtain a new Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) from the new sponsor and get approval from the relevant governing body before changing roles.

The visa covers:

  • Team sports: Football, rugby, cricket, basketball, hockey
  • Individual sports: Tennis, athletics, boxing, golf
  • Emerging sports: Squash, rowing, martial arts

Check the current list of recognised governing bodies before applying.

It is not currently possible to get a UK Skilled Worker visa as a competitive eSports player. ESports is not officially recognised as a sport by the UK government, and there is no Home Office-approved governing body for esports to provide the necessary endorsement.
The main visa route for elite sportspersons is the International Sportsperson visa, which requires:

  • An endorsement from a relevant UK sports governing body that is recognised by the Home Office.
  • Confirmation that the applicant is internationally established and will contribute to the development of their sport at the highest level in the UK.

Since there is no such governing body for eSports in the UK, players are ineligible for this route.
Alternative Visa Options (Short-Term)
For short-term participation in competitions, eSports players can use visitor routes:

  • Standard Visitor Visa: Allows entry for up to six months to take part in competitions and receive prize money and reasonable expenses. Players are categorised as “entertainers” under the permitted activities rules.
  • Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) Visitor Visa: Allows a person to visit the UK for up to one month to undertake a pre-arranged paid engagement related to their expertise, provided they are a full-time professional esports player and have an invitation from a UK-based creative organisation.

Future Possibilities

The UK government is aware of the growing esports industry, and experts have suggested that a dedicated eSports visa route may be created in the future, but no such route currently exists.

Yes. Eligible dependents include your partner and children under 18. They will need to apply for visas separately but can live, study and work in the UK depending on the visa conditions.

You can prove maintenance either through personal savings or financial guarantee from your sponsor. Bank statements or official sponsor letters are usually required.

Yes, if your visa is longer than 12 months, you must meet the English language requirement at level A1 in speaking and listening. Nationals of some English-speaking countries are exempt. 

No. You can only work for the sponsor listed on your CoS in the role specified. Any changes require a new CoS and approval. 

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