Immigration
No employer is be able to bring migrants to the UK, or to extend existing migrant workers permits, without first obtaining a licence to do so. A club will not be able to obtain a ‘sponsors licence’ unless you have been approved in advance by the Border and Immigration Agency (BIA).
Anyone wishing to come to the UK will need prior entry clearance which they cannot apply for without a certificate of sponsorship. Sports men and women will fall within the General Tier 2 category of ‘skilled workers’ under the points based system.
They will require a certificate of sponsorship issued by a licensed employer which must:
- state that they intend to base themselves in the UK and will comply with the conditions of their permission to stay and;
- include an endorsement from the sport’s governing body that they are established internationally at the highest level, will make a significant contribution to the sport in the UK and it is appropriate to fill the post from outside the EEA.
An applicant is awarded points based on three sets of criteria and must score a total of 70 points, as follows:
- The certificate of sponsorship (scores 50 points)
- They must demonstrate the ability to support themselves financially (scores 10 points)
- Demonstrating the ability to speak English to a basic standard (scores 10 points)
The Beswicks Sports team is experienced in assisting clubs, coaches and players to negotiate the UK immigration process. Contact us on 00 44 (0)1782 205 000 to discuss your particular circumstances.
