Visas & Entering the United Kingdom
It is important that you investigate and understand which visa you are eligible for to legally live and work in England. Please visit our guide to the different types of visas available - Visas
The procedure for applying for your visa differs depending on the type of visa:
Tier 1 - Highly Skilled Worker (f.k.a - HSMP)
You can apply for a Tier 1 visa independently and you do not need an offer of employment. If you fulfill the criteria for tier 1, you can apply online at
www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/wheretoapply
Tier 2 - Skilled Sponsored Worker (f.k.a - Work Permit)
In order to apply for the Tier 2 visa you will first need an offer of employment from a UK School who is licensed with the UK Border Agency. Your school will then issue you with a certificate of sponsorship, which is a unique reference number. You will then be able to apply for your UK entry clearance/visa. You can apply online at
www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/infs/inf26pbsskilledworker
Tier 5 - Youth Mobility Scheme (f.k.a - Working Holiday Visa)
You can apply for a Tier 5 visa independently and you do not need an offer of employment. If you fulfill the criteria for tier 5, you can apply online at
www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/wheretoapply
Before you apply for your visa you must make an appointment to have your Biometric Data Collected!
With any entry clearance application, you will be required to arrange an appointment to collect your biometric data. All applicants are now routinely required to provide 10 digit finger scans and a digital photograph when applying for a UK visa. Applicants will be required to attend in person to register their biometric data. Enrolment will simply mean presenting fingers on a glass screen, plus having a digital photograph taken. It will take less than five minutes and will not delay the decision on your application. The biometric data will be stored on a central government database in the UK and checked against UK government records. It will be handled in accordance with the UK's strict data protection laws. Depending on where you are applying from, you may need to submit your application on line or in person. Make sure that you either send or take in the appropriate fee and supporting evidence to the visa application centre.
For further information about Biometric Data Collection please check out:
www.ukvisas.gov.uk/en/howtoapply/biometricvisa
Once you have received your passport with your visa stamp back from the British Consulate you are free to enter England to teach.
Bluewave is registered with the Office of the Immigration Services Commission (OISC) and we are on hand to guide you through the visa process, as well as answer any questions you may have.
