5 Steps to Apply for a Tier 2 Visa

Congratulations on getting the NHS nursing job you’ve always dreamed of. Finding the right job is never easy, and when it is an overseas nursing job, it is all the more difficult. But it isn’t impossible! Now that you have got your dream nursing job, you want to make sure everything is on track to land in the UK and start your new job asap. So what do you do next? You will need to apply for a Tier 2 visa to work in the UK without any hassle.

If you don’t know what a Tier 2 visa is, it is a legal document given only to skilled workers. This is provided from the UK home office after you receive a job offer from a UK employer who has a valid Tier 2 sponsorship license. This visa allows you, an overseas nurse, to live and work in the UK for an initial period of 3 to 5 years. Applying for a Tier 2 visa can be a bit confusing. But no need to worry, below are 5 steps to apply:

Step 1: Receive Your CoS (Certificate of Sponsorship)

A CoS is an electronic record that will be assigned to you by your NHS hospital. It is a unique reference number, which contains your details and information about your NHS post. You will need this to carry out your application process. So, as soon as you receive the NHS job offer, inquire about your CoS. Without this certificate, you cannot proceed to apply for your Tier 2 visa. Your certificate of sponsorship will be valid for 3 months from the date it is issued.

Step 2: Provide documents

For the online Tier 2 visa application process, you will need to provide several documents. So before you begin to fill your online application it is advisable to keep the list of documents handy. This will ensure there are no delays once you start your online application. Below is the list of documents you will require:

1. CoS reference number
2. English language certificate
3. Passport size photos (2) 
4. Current passport
5. Expired passports, if you need to show your travel history
6. Employment details
7. TB test results
8. Criminal record certificate
9. Accommodation details
10. Personal and family information

Step 3: Complete the online application and pay the fees

Once you have filled out the online application with all your details, submit your application. Next, you will need to pay the visa fee.

Step 4: Appointment at Your Local Visa Application Centre

As part of the online application, you will need to make an appointment at a local visa application centre. Note the details and make sure to print this confirmation letter to take with you to the appointment. You will be required to carry your passport and confirm your ID. Also, make sure your fingerprints and photographs are taken for the biometric residence permit. Don’t miss out on carrying any documents, or else you will have to re-book. 

Step 5: Receive your application

Once your visa is accepted, a vignette will be issued in your passport and will be sent to you by post. For those who don’t know what a vignette is, it gives you the right to enter the UK. Upon receiving the vignette, you have 90 days to book your flight and fly to the UK.

Global Nurse Force has helped thousands of international nurses to secure their dream jobs in the UK.  We can help you secure the perfect job as well. 
For further advice and support on relocating to the UK, please email us at [email protected], and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have!