If you wish to work in the United Kingdom, then it is essential to know about the UK work visas offered by the country. The United Kingdom is among the leading destinations of job applicants globally. It has a robust economy, varied work opportunities, and excellent living standards, drawing skilled as well as unskilled workers to the country. Two of the most popular types of UK work visas individuals ask about are Tier 2 and Tier 3 visas.
But which one are you looking for? In this blog, we will discuss the differences between the two visa categories, their qualification requirements, and which one is appropriate for your case. Whether you are a professional with expertise seeking a long-term career or an unskilled worker in search of temporary work, knowing the appropriate UK work visas makes your transition smooth and problem-free.
What is a Tier 2 UK Work Visa?
A Tier 2 visa is meant for skilled workers who are offered a job by a UK employer. It enables individuals to reside and work in the UK temporarily. Tier 2 visa is for professional workers in areas such as healthcare, engineering, information technology, and teaching.
You will need to have a job offer from a licensed UK employer who can sponsor you for a Tier 2 visa. The employer has to demonstrate that they were unable to find a proper worker from within the UK or the European Economic Area (EEA) prior to employing a foreign worker.
Eligibility for a Tier 2 Visa
To qualify for a Tier 2 visa, you must satisfy some conditions:
- A sponsorship license holder UK employer who offers you a job.
- Your employer must give you a certificate of sponsorship.
- Evidence that your salary is above the minimum required (dependent on the type of job).
- You must have English language skills.
- Sufficient funds to maintain yourself when you arrive.
A Tier 2 visa typically lasts for a maximum of five years, and after that time, you will be able to apply for permanent residence in the UK.
What is a Tier 3 UK Work Visa?
The Tier 3 visa was originally intended for low-skilled workers that were needed to cover temporary shortages in jobs in the UK. It was meant for industries like agriculture, construction, and hospitality. The UK government chose, however, not to implement the Tier 3 visa category. UK employers now cover low-skilled job vacancies through home workers or other visa types like seasonal work schemes.
Why is the Tier 3 Visa Not Available?
The UK government abolished the Tier 3 visa category to manage immigration and stimulate employers to hire staff from the UK and EEA. There have been shifts in UK work visas policies following Brexit, with greater emphasis placed on qualified workers via the Tier 2 visa pathway. If you are an unskilled worker seeking a UK work visa, you might need to seek alternative avenues such as temporary work visas or employer sponsorship programs.
Major Differences Between Tier 2 and Tier 3 UK Work Visas
As the Tier 3 visa no longer exists, it is important to know how the Tier 2 visa compares with what was aimed for Tier 3.
| Feature | Tier 2 Visa | Tier 3 Visa (Discontinued) |
| Type of Work | Skilled jobs (e.g., healthcare, IT) | Low-skilled jobs (e.g., agriculture, hospitality) |
| Job Offer Required | Yes, from a licensed sponsor | Not applicable (discontinued) |
| Duration | Up to 5 years | Temporary (if it existed) |
| Path to Permanent Residency | Yes | No |
Alternative UK Work Visas for Low-Skilled Workers
As the Tier 3 visa is not available, individuals who want low-skilled employment in the UK have other alternatives:
- Seasonal Worker Visa: This visa permits individuals to work in the UK for a maximum of six months in agricultural positions.
- Temporary Work Visa (T5): For short-term employment, including charitable work, religious work, and creative industries.
- Family or Partner Visa: If you have a family member settled in the UK, you can join them and work there.
Which UK Work Visas Do You Need?
In the event that you are a proficient worker with a UK employer who has offered you employment, your choice should be the Tier 2 visa. It offers future job opportunities as well as leading to permanent residency. Nevertheless, in case of low-skilled work, then other accessible job visa alternatives such as the Temporary Work Visa or Seasonal Worker Visa should be pursued.
It is essential to understand UK work visas prior to planning your relocation. Although the Tier 2 visa is for qualified specialists, the Tier 3 visa is no longer in existence. If you are not sure what UK work visa is right for you, it is a good idea to take expert advice and get the most suitable route to work in the UK. No matter your profession, knowing the correct UK work visas ensures a smooth immigration process and a successful career in the UK.
