Temporary Work Visa UK 2 Years – Apply Now

Temporary Work Visa UK 2 Years – Apply Now , formally known as the Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) Visa, allows individuals to work in the UK for up to 24 months under an approved government-authorized exchange scheme. It is designed for those undertaking internships, training, research, or overseas government language programs. The visa is not a route to permanent settlement but provides valuable international experience.

Applicants must have a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor and show proof of sufficient financial support (usually £1,270 available for 28 consecutive days). English language proficiency is not typically required. The visa allows holders to work in the sponsored job, study, and bring dependants, but prohibits access to public funds and permanent jobs.

Processing usually takes around 3 weeks from outside the UK. The visa can’t be extended beyond two years, and switching to other visa categories from within the UK is limited. It suits graduates, trainees, and professionals looking to gain skills and cultural exchange in the UK. It’s essential to apply through one of the approved schemes, such as those in science, research, or charitable sectors. This visa offers a structured, short-term path to work and learn in the UK.

What is Temporary Work Visa for UK?

The UK Temporary Work Visa allows foreign nationals to work in the UK for a limited period under specific categories such as charity work, creative industries, religious roles, training, research, or seasonal employment. Each visa type requires a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed UK sponsor and proof of sufficient funds. These visas typically do not lead to permanent settlement and have strict time limits, usually ranging from 6 to 24 months. Holders may be allowed to work in their sponsored role, study, and bring dependants, but cannot access public funds or take permanent jobs. It’s ideal for short-term work experience.

Types of Work Visas in the UK

The UK offers several types of work visas, grouped into long-term and temporary categories:

1. Long-Term Work Visas

Skilled Worker Visa: For people with a job offer in an eligible skilled occupation from a licensed UK sponsor.
Health and Care Worker Visa: For healthcare professionals working with the NHS or social care.
Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility): For employees of multinational companies being transferred to a UK branch.
Scale-up Worker Visa: For workers in fast-growing UK businesses.
Minister of Religion Visa: For religious leaders taking up full-time roles.
International Sportsperson Visa: For elite athletes and qualified coaches.

2. Temporary Work Visas

Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) Visa: For training, internships, and research placements.
Charity Worker Visa: For voluntary, unpaid work with a UK charity.
Creative Worker Visa: For performers, artists, and entertainers.
Religious Worker Visa: For short-term religious roles.
Seasonal Worker Visa: For farm and horticultural work (up to 6 months).
Youth Mobility Scheme Visa: For young adults (18–30/35) from eligible countries to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.

Each visa type has specific requirements, duration limits, and permissions. Let me know if you’d like help choosing the right one.

Eligibility points for Temporary Work Visa UK 2 Years

Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) Visa). To qualify for this visa, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

You must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK-based organization that is licensed under a government-approved exchange scheme.

2. Approved Scheme

The job, internship, training, or research you’re doing must be part of an approved government-authorised exchange programme.

3. Duration of Stay

The visa is valid for up to 24 months (or less, depending on the scheme). It cannot be extended beyond this limit.

4. Financial Requirement

You must have at least £1,270 in your bank account to show you can support yourself unless your sponsor agrees to cover your costs. Funds must have been available for at least 28 consecutive days, ending within 31 days of your visa application.

5. Genuine Intent

You must genuinely intend to come to the UK temporarily for training, work experience, or research and leave after your visa ends.

6. Age Requirement

There is no strict age limit, but this visa is commonly used by students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals.

7. English Language

No English language test is required for this visa type.

Benefits of UK 2 Years Temporary Work Visa

Here are the key benefits of the UK 2-Year Temporary Work Visa:

1. Valuable UK Work Experience

This visa allows individuals to gain hands-on experience in a professional UK setting. It enhances their global employability, exposes them to international standards, and helps develop skills in areas such as research, training, or internships that are highly respected by employers worldwide.

2. Legal Right to Work and Train

Holders of this visa can legally work in the UK under an approved scheme. This includes paid or unpaid work depending on the program. It ensures participants can operate within UK employment laws, gaining authentic experience and contributing meaningfully to their field of interest.

3. Cultural and Professional Exchange

The visa promotes mutual understanding and learning through cultural and professional exchange. Participants interact with people from diverse backgrounds, share ideas, and broaden their perspectives—enhancing both personal growth and professional development in an international environment.

4. No English Language Requirement

Unlike many UK visas, this one does not require proof of English language skills. This makes it accessible for applicants from non-English-speaking countries, provided they meet other eligibility criteria such as sponsorship and financial requirements.

5. Permission to Study

While working, visa holders may also take up part-time study or professional courses. This flexibility allows them to improve their qualifications, learn new skills, or prepare for future academic or career goals alongside their main work placement.

6. Dependants Can Join You

Visa holders can bring eligible dependants, such as a spouse/partner and children, to the UK. Dependants are allowed to work and study, providing opportunities for the entire family to benefit from the UK’s educational and professional environment during the stay.

Application Process for UK 2 Years Temporary Work Visa

1. Check Eligibility

Before applying, confirm you meet all eligibility criteria, including having a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed sponsor and sufficient funds to support yourself. Ensure your intended work or training fits an approved government-authorized exchange scheme under the Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) category.

2. Find a Sponsor and Obtain Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)

Secure a sponsorship from a UK employer or organization licensed under the GAE scheme. They will provide a unique CoS reference number essential for your visa application, confirming your placement and the nature of your work or training in the UK.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Gather necessary documents such as your passport, CoS, proof of funds (bank statements), tuberculosis test results (if applicable), and a recent photograph. Double-check that your documents are current, correctly formatted, and meet UK Home Office requirements.

4. Complete Online Application

Visit the official UK government visa website and complete the online application form for the Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange visa. Fill in personal details, sponsor information, and travel plans carefully to avoid errors or delays.

5. Pay the Visa Fee and Immigration Health Surcharge

Pay the required visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge, which grants access to the UK’s National Health Service during your stay. Ensure you keep the payment receipts, as these are needed to support your visa application.

6. Book and Attend Biometric Appointment

Schedule an appointment at a local visa application center to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph). This step is mandatory and must be completed before the UK Home Office processes your application.

7. Submit Supporting Documents

Submit your supporting documents as instructed, either online or at the visa center. This includes your passport, certificate of sponsorship, financial evidence, and any additional paperwork required to prove eligibility and identity.

8. Wait for Decision

Processing typically takes about 3 weeks. During this time, the Home Office reviews your application, sponsorship details, and documents to decide if you meet all visa criteria. You can track your application status online through the official portal.

9. Receive Visa and Travel to the UK

If approved, you will receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport valid for 30 days to enter the UK. Once in the UK, you must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days from a designated post office.

10. Comply with Visa Conditions During Stay

While in the UK, adhere to visa restrictions: work only for your sponsor, avoid permanent employment, and do not access public funds. Follow the rules of your specific scheme and leave the UK before your visa expires unless you apply for a different visa.

Application Fees for UK 2 year work visa

The application fee for the UK 2-Year Temporary Work Visa (Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange) is £319 per applicant. This fee is the same whether you apply from inside or outside the UK. In addition to the application fee, you must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is typically £1,035 per year, totaling £2,070 for a 2-year visa. If you are applying from India, the total visa application fee is approximately ₹37158. Please note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s advisable to check the official UK government website for the most current information.

Website List Find Jobs in UK

Here’s a list of popular websites to find jobs in the UK:

Indeed UK — https://www.indeed.co.uk
One of the largest job search engines, covering all sectors and locations.
LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/jobs/uk/
Professional networking platform with extensive job listings and employer connections.
Reed.co.uk — https://www.reed.co.uk
Offers a wide range of job listings, courses, and career advice.
Totaljobs — https://www.totaljobs.com
Comprehensive job board with thousands of UK vacancies across industries.
Monster UK — https://www.monster.co.uk
Popular international job site with UK-specific listings.
Guardian Jobs — https://jobs.theguardian.com
Focuses on public sector, charity, education, and media roles.
Glassdoor UK — https://www.glassdoor.co.uk
Job listings with company reviews and salary insights.
Jobsite — https://www.jobsite.co.uk
Covers a broad spectrum of jobs with user-friendly search filters.
CV-Library — https://www.cv-library.co.uk
One of the UK’s leading job boards with millions of listings.
Gov.uk Find a Job — https://www.gov.uk/find-a-job
Official government site for job vacancies across the UK.

Conclusion:

The UK 2-Year Temporary Work Visa (Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange) offers a valuable opportunity for individuals seeking short-term work, training, or research experience in the UK. It enables applicants to gain international exposure, develop professional skills, and participate in cultural exchange through approved schemes. While it does not lead to permanent residency, the visa allows holders to work legally, study, and bring dependants. With reasonable eligibility criteria and no English language requirement, it’s accessible for many early-career professionals and graduates. Overall, this visa provides a structured, temporary pathway for career growth and global networking in the UK.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How long is a temporary visa in the UK?

A UK Temporary Work Visa typically lasts between 6 months to 2 years, depending on the visa category and scheme. For example, the Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange visa allows up to 24 months, while the Seasonal Worker visa lasts up to 6 months, with no extension beyond these limits.

How can I get a temporary work visa in the UK?

To get a UK Temporary Work Visa, first secure a job or placement with a licensed UK sponsor under an approved scheme. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship from your sponsor, then complete the online visa application. Provide required documents like your passport, proof of funds, and biometric information. Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge. Once approved, receive your visa and travel to the UK to start your temporary work or training.

How to get a 2-year work visa in the UK?

To get a UK 2-year work visa (Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange), first find a UK sponsor licensed under an approved exchange scheme. Obtain a Certificate of Sponsorship from them, then complete the online visa application. Submit required documents, including proof of funds and biometric data, and pay the application fee plus the health surcharge. Once approved, you can enter the UK and work or train for up to 24 months under the scheme.