Temporary Work – Government Authorised Exchange visa, is a unique opportunity for individuals seeking short-term work experiences, training, research, or fellowships through approved government authorised exchange schemes.

To apply successfully, please ensure the following:

• Your intention is to come to the UK for work experience, training, Overseas Government Language Programme, research, or a fellowship.
• You have a sponsor, which could be an organisation running an approved exchange scheme, a higher education institution, or a government department or agency.

Sponsorship: Before applying, secure a certificate of sponsorship from your licensed sponsor. This document validates your job and personal details. Note that your work, training, or research must align with the activities of your sponsor organisation.

Duration of Stay: The duration of your stay depends on your visa’s length, starting and ending dates of your job. You may be granted a visa for a maximum of 12 or 24 months based on the chosen scheme.

What You Can and Cannot Do: You are permitted to:

• Study (some courses may require an Academic Technology Approval Scheme certificate).
• Work in the job specified in your certificate of sponsorship.
• Undertake a second job for up to 20 hours per week.
• Engage in a job on the Skilled Worker shortage occupation list for up to 20 hours per week in addition to your main job.
• Bring your eligible partner and children as dependants.

However, you cannot:

• Accept a permanent job.
• Receive public funds.

Financial Requirement: To meet the financial requirement, maintain a minimum of £1,270 in your bank account for at least 28 days before application. Ensure your dependents also demonstrate financial self-sufficiency in the UK.

English Language Proficiency: Unlike many other visa categories, the Government Authorised Exchange visa does not require proof of English language proficiency. This is advantageous for applicants whose native language may not be English.

Documents Required: When applying, ensure you provide:

• Certificate of sponsorship reference number.
• Valid passport or identity document.
• Evidence of personal savings (unless your certificate of sponsorship shows your employer can support you).
• Proof of relationship with dependants.
• Tuberculosis test results (if applicable).
• ATAS certificate if required for sensitive subject research at PhD level or higher.
• Consent letter from a government or international scholarship agency (if applicable).