To work in the UK as a Bangladeshi national, you’ll need to obtain a work visa that suits your specific job and circumstances. The most common types of work visas are under the UK’s points-based immigration system, primarily the Skilled Worker Visa. Here’s a comprehensive guide on the process:
1. Types of Work Visas in the UK:
- Skilled Worker Visa: For individuals who have a job offer from a UK employer with a valid sponsor license.
- Health and Care Worker Visa: A subcategory of the Skilled Worker Visa for medical professionals.
- Global Talent Visa: For highly skilled individuals in fields such as science, engineering, and arts.
- Temporary Worker Visas: Includes visas for charity workers, creative and sporting professionals, and more.
- Graduate Visa: For international students who have completed a degree in the UK and want to work.
2. Eligibility Requirements:
- Job Offer: You must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer who holds a sponsor license.
- Skill Level: Your job must be at a required skill level (usually RQF level 3 or above, equivalent to A-level).
- Salary Threshold: You must meet the minimum salary requirement, typically £26,200 per year or the “going rate” for the job, whichever is higher.
- English Language: You must prove your proficiency in English (usually by passing an approved English language test or having a relevant degree taught in English).
- Financial Requirements: You must show you have enough money to support yourself without relying on public funds, usually by having at least £1,270 in your bank account for 28 consecutive days.
3. Application Process:
Step 1: Job Offer and Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
- Job Offer:
- Secure a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsor license. The employer must provide you with a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), which is a reference number containing information about the job and your personal details.
- Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS):
- Your employer applies for the CoS, which they will assign to you once approved. This is essential for your visa application.
Step 2: Visa Application
- Online Visa Application:
- Apply for the Skilled Worker Visa (or other relevant visa) online through the UK government’s visa application portal.
- Required Documents:
- Passport or valid travel identification.
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Evidence of personal savings (if applicable).
- Tuberculosis (TB) test results (required for Bangladeshi nationals).
- Criminal record certificate (for certain jobs).
- Your job offer details and salary information.
- Visa Application Fee:
- Pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on the visa type and length of stay.
- Health Surcharge: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your application, which allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
- Biometric Information:
- You will need to provide your biometric information (fingerprints and a photo) at a visa application center in Bangladesh.
- Visa Processing:
- The processing time typically takes 3-8 weeks. Priority services may be available for faster processing at an additional cost.
- Outcome Notification:
- Once your visa is processed, you will be notified. If approved, you will receive a vignette (sticker) in your passport, allowing you to travel to the UK.
Step 3: Arrival in the UK and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Entry into the UK:
- Enter the UK within the validity period of your vignette. You must collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of your arrival.
- Collect BRP:
- The BRP is your official documentation confirming your right to live and work in the UK. You can collect it from a designated post office or your employer, depending on your visa application details.
4. Additional Considerations:
- Dependents: Your spouse/partner and children can apply to join you as dependents on your work visa.
- Visa Extension: Most work visas can be extended as long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
- Permanent Residency: After living in the UK for five years on a Skilled Worker Visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), leading to permanent residency.
5. Consulting and Assistance:
- Visa Agents: Consider working with licensed visa consultants in Bangladesh to assist with your visa application process.
- Legal Advice: Seek legal or professional advice if you encounter any complex situations or need detailed guidance on the process.
Conclusion:
Obtaining a work visa for the UK as a Bangladeshi national requires careful preparation and adherence to the points-based immigration system. Ensure you have a valid job offer, gather all necessary documentation, and follow the application process diligently to secure your visa successfully.
