Temporary workers - international agreement
When and how to apply
This page explains when and how you should apply under the creative and sporting category of tier 5 of the points-based system to work in the United Kingdom.
On this page
For applications made inside the United Kingdom
If you are already in the United Kingdom, you should apply to stay as soon as possible and before your current permission to stay runs out. We encourage you to apply at least one month before your permission to stay runs out.
Application date by post
The date of postage is used as the date of application.
The date of an application made by post is decided by the postmark. The payment handling service attaches the original envelope with all postal applications. If the envelope in which the application was posted is missing, or if the postmark is illegible, the date of postage is taken as at least one day before its receipt. The day of receipt is normally the date the payment handling service processed the fee. If there is any uncertainty, you will be given the benefit of the doubt.
Application date by courier
If you send your application by courier, the date it is received at the payment handling service is used as the date of application.
The payment handling service attaches the original envelope with all postal applications. The payment handling service includes the date of delivery for all applications by courier.
Application in person
If you apply in person, the date that you apply is the date you go to the public enquiry office. Find out more about applying in person at a public enquiry office including what to do before you arrive, the cost and what will happen on the day.
Withdrawal of application
If you would like to withdraw your application you will need to use the return of documents form on the right side of this page. This form is for the withdrawal of applications only, it is not an urgent treatment request which means your application will not be considered and your documents will be returned to you with no decision. No refund will be given for the cost of the application if this form is used.
If you submit the request before 12 noon, we will aim to withdraw your application and return your documents on the same day. All documents will be returned by standard recorded delivery, but if you wish to arrange a courier you should state this on the withdrawal form and we will contact you with a suitable time for collection.
For applications made outside the United Kingdom
The date of the application is the date that the fee associated with the application is paid. This means the date shown on your payment receipt, which depends on how you paid for your visa application, for example, at British Diplomatic Post, visa application centre or online.
Go to our visa services website, which you can find on the right of this page, if you are applying from outside the United Kingdom. There you can find out more about the process in the country you are applying from and download the application forms.
Application forms
Tier 5 temporary worker - for applications made inside the United Kingdom
- Application form for Tier 5 temporary workers. Valid from 1 October 2009PDF 859KB opens in a new window
- Tier 5 temporary worker of the points-based system - policy guidancePDF 416KB opens in a new window
Related documents
- Return of documents formDOC 210KB opens in a new window
Internet links
Visa services application form