Minister of Religion Visa (T2)

The Minister of Religion Visa (T2) allows individuals to come to the UK to take up religious roles, such as ministers of religion, missionaries, or members of a religious order. This visa is designed for individuals who will be working for a religious organization in the UK, whether to lead religious services, provide religious education, or perform other religious duties.

This visa can lead to settlement in the UK after a certain period if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligibility

To qualify for a Minister of Religion Visa (T2), you must satisfy UK Visas and Immigration that:

• You are aged 18 or over.
• You have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK religious organization that is listed as an approved sponsor.
• Your role is religious in nature and meets the requirements for the visa.
• You have a job offer from a religious organization in the UK to carry out duties such as leading religious services, teaching, or other religious activities.
• Your job is skilled to at least RQF Level 6 (graduate equivalent).
• You meet the salary requirement, which is usually at least £20,960 per year or the ‘going rate’ for the job, whichever is higher.
• You have sufficient funds to support yourself without relying on public funds.
• You have provided a valid TB certificate, if required.

Duration of Stay

You can stay in the UK with a Minister of Religion Visa (T2) for:

• The time specified on your Certificate of Sponsorship, plus 14 days.
• You can stay for up to 5 years in any 6-year period.

Extensions may be possible, provided you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.

Application Process

Timeline

You can apply for a visa up to 3 months before your job start date in the UK, as listed on your Certificate of Sponsorship. As part of your application, you will need to:

• Prove your identity.
• Provide the required documents.
• You may need an appointment to complete this process, which can add time to your application. You will be informed if an appointment is necessary.

Decision Timeframe

• 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK.
• 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK.

Rights and Restrictions

What You Can Do:

• Work for your sponsor in the role described in your Certificate of Sponsorship.
• Study.
• Bring your partner and children as dependants, if eligible.
• Travel abroad and return to the UK.

What You Cannot Do:

• Apply for most benefits (public funds) or the state pension.
• Change jobs unless you meet eligibility criteria and update your visa.
• Apply for indefinite leave to remain (settlement) in the UK without meeting the specific requirements.

Get in touch with us now at Squadlead to make your Minister of Religion Visa (T2) application process seamless and stress-free!