The Temporary Work – Religious Worker visa is for people who want to come to the UK for up to 24 months to do non-pastoral religious work. This could include roles like:
- Supporting religious services (but not leading them)
- Working in a monastery or convent
- Assisting with religious community activities
If you want to preach or lead a congregation, you’ll need a different visa: the Minister of Religion visa (We can assist with these visas also).
How to Apply for the Religious Worker Visa
Step-by-Step Process:
- Get a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
You must have a job offer from a licensed UK sponsor (usually a religious institution). They’ll give you a CoS—a reference number that confirms your job details. - Apply Online
You can apply up to 3 months before your job starts. The application is done through the UK government website - Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need:- Your passport
- Your CoS reference number
- Proof of savings
- Tuberculosis test results (if required for your country)
- Travel insurance
- Pay the Fees
- Application fee: £319
- Healthcare surcharge: £1,035 per year
- Biometrics Appointment
You may need to attend a visa application centre to give fingerprints and a photo. - Wait for a Decision
- 3 weeks if applying from outside the UK
- 8 weeks if applying from inside the UK
What You Can Do on This Visa
- Work in the job described in your CoS
- Study (some courses may need extra clearance)
- Take a second job (up to 20 hours/week in the same sector or on the shortage occupation list)
- Bring your partner and children (if eligible)
What You Cannot Do
- Claim public funds (benefits)
- Take a permanent job outside your sponsorship
- Work in a pastoral role (preaching, leading services)
Want to Travel to Europe While in the UK?
If you’re in the UK on a Religious Worker visa and want to visit Europe (Schengen Area), here’s what to do:
Step-by-Step: Visiting Europe
- Check if You Need a Schengen Visa
Most non-EU nationals do. Check the embassy website of the country you want to visit. - Apply for a Schengen Visa (Type C)
- Apply through the embassy or visa centre of the country you’ll visit first or spend the most time in.
- You’ll need:
- Passport
- UK visa/BRP
- Proof of travel and accommodation
- Travel insurance
- Proof of funds
- Book an Appointment
Use services like TLScontact or VFS Global. - Processing Time
Usually 15 calendar days, but apply early just in case.
What If You Have Religious Duties in Europe?
If you’re invited to perform religious duties (e.g., attend a conference, assist in a ceremony), you must:
- Check visa rules for that country. Some allow short religious visits under a Schengen visa, others may require a special permit.
- Get an invitation letter from the European religious institution.
- Apply for the correct visa—mention the purpose clearly in your application.
- Ensure you take the correct travel insurance to cover the period in the UK and Europe.
How Long Does It All Take?
- UK Religious Worker Visa: 3–8 weeks, depending on where you apply from.
- Schengen Visa: 2–3 weeks (apply at least a month in advance).
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you require further information regarding Religious Worker Visas. We can either assist you with the whole application process or we can provide a checking service.
Get in Touch
Joanna Safadi is an Associate Partner and Immigration solicitor advising on visa applications and sponsorship licences. If you’d like to get in touch, please call 03301 624 681 or via our contact form.