United Kingdom•Europe21 days
2,831 GBP
1 year
Yes
Required
Not Specified
No
Not Required

For creative artists, entertainers, and sportspeople coming to work temporarily in the UK.
The UK Creative Worker visa (Temporary Work) lets international actors, dancers, musicians, film crew, and other creative professionals work temporarily in the UK under employer sponsorship. Applicants must hold a Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed UK sponsor.
Grants up to 12 months' stay, renewable for a maximum 2-year total. The £340 application fee applies whether applying from inside or outside the UK, plus a £1,035/year Immigration Health Surcharge. Partners and children may join as dependants. There is no pathway to settlement.
This visa is ideal for professional creatives with a firm UK work offer from a licensed sponsor who need a flexible, short-term route without seeking permanent residence.
Application fee | 340 GBP |
Immigration Health Surcharge | 1,035 GBP |
Immigration Health Surcharge for children | 776 GBP |
Dependant partner application fee | 340 GBP |
Dependant child application fee (first child) | 340 GBP |
| Outside UK | 3 weeks |
| Inside UK | 2 months |
| Initial grant | 1 year |
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
United KingdomJob offer as a creative worker in the UK (actor, dancer, musician, film crew, etc.)
Valid certificate of sponsorship from a licensed UK sponsor
Demonstrates unique contribution to the UK labour market
Salary meets minimums set by Equity, PACT, or BECTU
At least £1,270 in personal savings held for 28+ consecutive days
Job Offer
Required
Education
none or higher
Min. Savings
1,270 EUR
Valid passport or travel document.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) reference number.
Evidence of financial maintenance (e.g., bank statements) unless exempt.
Tuberculosis test results (if applicable).
Certified translations for any documents not in English or Welsh.
Additional documents as required by the specific creative role or sponsor.
| Application Steps | Obtain a certificate of sponsorship from a licensed UK creative industry employer; Apply online via … | gov.uk |
| Fee Breakdown | Application fee: 340 GBP; Immigration Health Surcharge: 1035 GBP; Immigration Health Surcharge for c… | gov.uk |
| Fees | £340 application fee + £1,035/year Immigration Health Surcharge | gov.uk |
| Forms | — | gov.uk |
| Included Nationalities | — | gov.uk |
| Job Offer Required | true | gov.uk |
| Application Portal | https://www.gov.uk/creative-worker-visa/apply | gov.uk |
| Official Info | https://www.gov.uk/creative-worker-visa | gov.uk |
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