International Sportsperson visa
For elite sportspeople and coaches endorsed by their sport's UK governing body.
The International Sportsperson visa is a UK work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~£319 (≤12 months) / £769 (>12 months); CoS required; IHS ~£1,035/year) and processing time (~3 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the International Sportsperson visa is for
For elite sportspeople and coaches endorsed by their sport's UK governing body.
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years for longer-term grants.
International Sportsperson visa - eligibility criteria
- Endorsed by your sport's recognised UK governing body
- Internationally established at the highest level
- Will make a significant contribution to the sport in the UK
- Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed sponsor
- Knowledge of English (for grants over 12 months)
International Sportsperson visa cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the International Sportsperson visa (United Kingdom) is ~£319 (≤12 months) / £769 (>12 months); CoS required; IHS ~£1,035/year, with an indicative processing time of ~3 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at GOV.UK.
| Type | Points-based |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Outside or inside the UK |
| Length of stay | Up to 3 years (12 months or less for short engagements) |
| Work rights | Work in the sponsored sporting role; some secondary work allowed |
| Study rights | Study allowed |
| Government fee | ~£319 (≤12 months) / £769 (>12 months); CoS required; IHS ~£1,035/year |
| Processing time | ~3 weeks |
| Route to PR | Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years for longer-term grants. |
Pathway & next steps
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years for longer-term grants.
Many applicants also compare Creative Worker · Temporary Work - Creative Worker visa, Skilled Worker · Skilled Worker visa, ILR · Indefinite Leave to Remain (Settlement). Run a free VisaChief check to see which UK route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common International Sportsperson visa pitfalls we fix
International Sportsperson visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the International Sportsperson visa cost?
The International Sportsperson visa government fee is ~£319 (≤12 months) / £769 (>12 months); CoS required; IHS ~£1,035/year. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at GOV.UK before applying.
How long does the International Sportsperson visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~3 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the International Sportsperson visa lead to permanent residence?
Leads to settlement (ILR) after 5 years for longer-term grants.
Can I work on the International Sportsperson visa?
Work rights: Work in the sponsored sporting role; some secondary work allowed.
Who can apply for the International Sportsperson visa?
For elite sportspeople and coaches endorsed by their sport's UK governing body.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official United Kingdom government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- GOV.UK - official United Kingdom immigration authority