The UK is not only the best country to study for Indian students but also the most suitable country to start your career as a sportsperson. The government of the UK provides the UK international sportsperson visa, also known as the Tier 2(Sportsperson) visa.

The UK international sportsperson visa is a category the authority has designed to attract talented international athletes and sportspeople to the UK. This visa also enables professional sportspeople to live and work in the UK while pursuing their sporting careers.

The UK international sportsperson visa is valid for a maximum of three years. You can extend it further if you wish to stay longer in the UK.

Eligibility Criteria To Get The UK International Sportsperson Visa

Individuals must meet specific criteria before applying for the UK international sportsperson visa. The eligibility requirements are as follows:-

• The sportsperson applying must possess internationally recognizable certificates at the highest level in their sport or demonstrate exceptional promise and potential.
• The applicant must also have a sponsorship or endorsement from a recognized sporting body, like a national governing body, a sports club, or an international sports federation.
• They must demonstrate that their employment as a sportsperson will significantly contribute to their sport in the UK at the highest level. They might need to provide evidence of participation in different international competitions, rankings, medals, or endorsements from influential figures in the sporting world.
• The applicant also needs to qualify for the English Language proficiency test.
• They must provide evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves and their dependents, such as spouses and children, during their stay in the UK.

Once you get the UK international sportsperson visa, you can freely engage in your chosen sport professionally. You can represent your club or country in competitions and tournaments.

You are also allowed to engage in other sport-related activities, like coaching or giving demonstrations, provided these activities are within the scope of your sponsorship.

It is necessary to know that the UK international sportsperson visa does not allow you to apply for a settlement in the UK. However, you can switch to other visa categories like the Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) visa or the Tier 2 (General) visa, which would offer you a pathway to settlement.

To apply for this visa, you can take help from the expert team of Viza International, who has the experience of guiding many Indians to get the UK international sportsperson visa. Viza International is also one of the best study-abroad consultants in Kerala.