You can apply for an International Sportsperson visa if you meet the eligibility requirements and your sport’s governing body endorses your application, confirming:

• you’re an elite sportsperson or qualified coach.

• you’re internationally established.

• your employment will develop your sport in the UK at the highest level.

To be eligible you must:

• have a valid certificate of sponsorship for your job.

• usually prove that you can speak and understand English, if you’re applying to stay for longer than 12 months.

• have personal savings so you can support yourself when you arrive in the UK.

• show you can travel and your travel history over the last 5 years.

• have a negative tuberculosis test if you’re from a listed country.

• Your employer must make sure your job pays at least the minimum wage and follows the UK rules for how many hours a week you work. If your employer does not do this, your application will be refused.

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within:

• 3 weeks, if you’re outside the UK

• 8 weeks, if you’re inside the UK