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No doubt, last years world cup in Qatar showcased footballers’ skills on the pitch, these players will have attracted attention from major football clubs around the world, including UK football clubs wanting to sign international footballers for their respective teams.
So, what are the possible visa routes available for footballers looking to transfer to a football club in the United Kingdom or indeed any professional person in any sport.
Footballers and their agents and other sportsperson should consider the purpose of the players trip to the UK as well as the length of stay when deciding which visa is the best option for them to come and play in the UK.
There are three main visa types for those looking to come and play (or coach) sport in the UK.
• International Sportsperson Visa
• Sports Visitor Visa.
• Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) Visit Visa
The International Sportsperson Visa is aimed at elite sportsperson or qualified coach, who are recognised by the sport’s governing body as being at the highest level of their profession internationally. This visa is most suited to those footballers or other professionals looking to come to the UK for a longer period.
The Sports Visitor’s Visa is aimed at amateur and professional sportspersons (individuals and teams), technical or support staff of sportspersons and sports officials who wish to visit the UK to undertake permitted unpaid sporting activities for a period of up to 6 months. This is much more suited to those who are up coming and maybe not sure they want to stay on a longer-term basis in the UK.
For those sports people just wanting to ‘dip a toe in the water’ the Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE) Visit Visa is available to certain professionals and experts who wish to visit the UK for up to 1 month to undertake a paid engagement relating to their expertise and occupation.
Need more information? “Be On The Ball Give Biscoes A Call’ on 02392660261 or alternatively email one of our experts in our immigration department info@biscoes-law.co.uk