How to Apply for a Hospitality Visa in the UK

What is the Hospitality Visa UK?
The Hospitality Visa UK refers to work visas enabling foreign nationals to join the UK’s hospitality sector, including roles in hotels, restaurants, catering, and event management. These roles often fall under the Skilled Worker Visa or Temporary Worker Visa categories, addressing the industry’s demand for international talent.

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Purpose: For long-term employment in eligible roles that meet skill and salary thresholds.
Eligibility: Requires a job offer from a UK employer licensed to sponsor Skilled Worker visas.
Examples of Eligible Roles: Chefs, managers, or specialized hospitality positions.

Purpose: For short-term work in industries such as agriculture or food production, including hospitality events.
Eligibility: Requires sponsorship by a UK-licensed employer for a limited duration.

Purpose: Allows individuals aged 18–30 from eligible countries to live and work in the UK for up to 2 years.
Eligibility: Does not require employer sponsorship. Suitable for entry-level hospitality jobs.

Job Offer: Must have a confirmed job offer from a UK employer.
Sponsorship: Employer must hold a valid sponsorship license.
Skill Level: Job must meet the skill requirements for the specific visa.
Salary Threshold:
- Skilled Worker Visa: Minimum salary of £26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour (lower thresholds apply for shortage occupations).
English Proficiency: Meet CEFR Level B1 or higher.

Valid Passport: With at least six months’ validity beyond your intended stay.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Provided by your employer.
Proof of Qualifications: For specialized roles like chefs or managers.
English Language Test Results: IELTS or equivalent (if applicable).
Financial Evidence: Proof you can support yourself (unless exempt due to employer sponsorship).
Criminal Record Certificate: For roles requiring interaction with vulnerable groups.

Identify UK employers in the hospitality sector who are licensed sponsors.

Your employer will provide a CoS, which includes job details and duration.

Submit fingerprints and a photograph at a visa application center.

Processing typically takes 3 weeks for applications outside the UK.

Pathway to Settlement in the UK
For those on a Skilled Worker Visa, time spent working in the UK can count toward the 5-year residency requirement for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Temporary Worker Visas, however, do not typically lead to settlement.

Work Opportunities: Access to a growing industry with diverse job roles.
Family Inclusion: Dependents can join you on the visa (for eligible visas like the Skilled Worker Visa).
Career Progression: Opportunity to advance in the UK’s dynamic hospitality sector.

Solution: Research licensed employers using the UKVI’s list of sponsors and approach recruitment agencies specializing in hospitality.

Solution: Apply for roles on the shortage occupation list, which have lower salary thresholds.

Are hospitality jobs considered skilled for the Skilled Worker Visa?
Some roles, like chefs or specialized hospitality managers, are eligible under the Skilled Worker Visa.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker Visa from a Youth Mobility Scheme Visa?
Yes, you can switch if you meet the requirements for the Skilled Worker Visa.
What is the minimum salary for hospitality roles under the Skilled Worker Visa?
£26,200 per year or £10.75 per hour. Lower thresholds apply for shortage occupations.
Can dependents join me on a hospitality visa?
Yes, dependents can join you under the Skilled Worker Visa but not on a Temporary Worker Visa.
Does the visa cover hotel and restaurant jobs?
Yes, eligible roles in hotels, restaurants, catering, and event management may qualify.
Is there a specific visa for seasonal hospitality workers?
The Temporary Worker Visa may be applicable for short-term roles tied to events or seasonal demand.

Conclusion
The Hospitality Visa UK offers exciting opportunities for foreign nationals to join one of the UK’s fastest-growing sectors. Whether you’re pursuing long-term employment through a Skilled Worker Visa or short-term opportunities, understanding the requirements and preparing a thorough application ensures your success.