smartblogger094The UK construction industry is experiencing a significant skills shortage with over 225,000 construction jobs currently vacant. As a result, the UK government has launched various programs to attract skilled construction workers from overseas through visa sponsorship.
One such program is the Construction Visa Sponsorship Scheme that allows construction companies in the UK to sponsor skilled workers and pay them a relocation package of up to £20,000 to relocate to the UK. This guide will provide all the important details about this program to help you evaluate if you should consider applying for it.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible to apply under the Construction Visa Sponsorship Scheme, you must meet the following criteria:
Occupation
You must have a skills in one of the eligible construction occupations specified on the shortage occupation list such as bricklayers, carpenters, welders etc. Your qualifications and experience must match the requirements of the role you are applying for.
Language Requirements
You need to have minimum English language skills at B1 level or above as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). Applicants will need to provide evidence of their English language ability such as passing an approved English language test like IELTS or TOEFL.
Minimum Salary Threshold
Your total salary (including relocation package) must meet the minimum salary threshold as specified by the Home Office, which is currently £25,600 per year. The sponsoring employer must also agree in writing to pay you the minimum salary.
Sponsorship by an Approved Employer
You must have a paid job offer from a licensed UK employer sponsor who is a registered sponsor under the Points-Based System and has been approved to sponsor skilled workers under the Construction Visa Scheme. The employer will help you through the visa application process.
Visa Application Process
Once you have an eligible job offer from an approved UK construction sponsoring employer, the process to apply for a visa under this scheme is as follows:
1. Employer Applies for a Certificate of Sponsorship
Before applying for your visa, the UK employer needs to apply to the Home Office for a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) on your behalf. This confirms that they are formally sponsoring you.
2. Pay Immigration Skills Charge
Once the CoS is assigned, the employer must pay the Immigration Skills Charge of £1,000 for sponsoring you, to fund the Apprenticeship Levy in the UK.
3. Apply for the Visa
With the CoS in hand, you then apply for entry clearance as a skilled worker by filling the online visa form and paying the application fee of £1,408. You will need to submit documents like passport, qualifications, English test, job offer letter etc.
4. Visa Application Decision
Most standard visa applications are processed within 3 weeks and you will receive the decision by post or email. If approved, your visa will allow you to travel to the UK and start working for the sponsoring employer.
5. Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
Once in the UK, you will receive your BRP card which acts as your permission to live and work in the UK. You can normally remain in the UK for up to 5 years on this visa.
Relocation Package Details
Some of the key highlights of the relocation package offered by construction employers under this scheme are:
Up to £20,000 Cash Allowance
This is one of the biggest draws of this program as it allows you to receive up to £20,000 tax-free cash to help cover your initial relocation costs like moving, deposits, furniture etc.
Accommodation Assistance
Most employers will help you source short term accommodation when you first arrive and look for long term housing together. Some may cover rent deposits or initial rental costs.
Sign-on Bonus
In addition to the relocation package, many construction companies also offer a sign-on bonus ranging from £1,000 to £5,000 for accepting the job.
Settling In Support
Beyond providing financial assistance, reputed sponsors also help new employees settle in the UK with guidance on services like banking, local transportation, schooling, healthcare etc.
Long Term Career Prospects
For skilled construction workers, this sponsorship opens doors to a long term career in the UK construction industry with opportunities to gain expertise, qualify for higher roles and eventually settle permanently in the country.
Factors to Consider
While this scheme offers a unique chance to pursue a well-paying job overseas, there are still some factors you need to evaluate carefully before applying:
- Cost of Living in the UK: Salaries may seem attractive but living costs are generally higher in the UK compared to many other countries. Do thorough research and financial planning.
- Job Role and Location: Carefully check the job role and location and ensure it is suitable for your qualifications, experience and preferences in terms of city, facilities etc.
- Long Working Hours: Construction can involve strenuous work and sometimes late working hours depending on project demands and deadlines. Ensure you are prepared for this.
- Immigration Compliance: Make sure to comply with all visa conditions like working for the approved employer, change of address reporting requirements and application for further leave/settlement if needed. Any non-compliance could lead to penalties or loss of immigration status.
- Language and Cultural Adaptation: Consider your ability and comfort with adapting to a new work and social environment including language, cultural nuances and living independently in an unfamiliar place.
- Dependent Relocation: If relocating with family members, ensure the scheme also covers their relocation, accommodation, healthcare, schooling etc as the visa is granted on individual basis.
- Employer Reputation: Do thorough background checks on the sponsoring employer through online reviews and industry networks to ensure they have a solid track record of ethical employment practices. A reliable employer is key for visa success.
Weighing all such factors will help you take an informed decision on whether this opportunity is the right fit for your skills, aspirations and personal circumstances. With careful planning and due diligence, it can open up an excellent international career pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section covers some of the most frequently asked questions about the UK Construction Visa Sponsorship Scheme:
1. How long can I stay in the UK on this visa initially?
The initial permission is granted for a period of 3 years and 4 months to account for the 12 months it usually takes to complete a construction project. At the end of this period, it is possible to extend the visa or apply for further visa options like settlement.
2. Can I change jobs after arriving in the UK?
No, you are expected to work for the sponsoring employer mentioned in your visa for the entire duration of your initial stay. Changing employers without proper permission would mean violating your visa conditions.
3. Can I bring my family with me to the UK?
It is possible to add family dependents to your visa application like spouse and children under 18 years of age. However, you will need to show additional funds to cover their living costs as well. Your family members can work part-time in the UK once granted dependent visas.
4. How much proof of funds do I need to show?
In addition to guaranteed salary from your job offer, you may need to show access to around £1,270 per month in savings for each family member accompanying you to demonstrate you can financially support them without relying on public funds. The exact amount depends on Home Office requirements.
5. Will I be eligible for public benefits in the UK?
Those coming under this work visa are usually not permitted access to public funds like claiming unemployment or out-of-work benefits during their initial stay. However, you will be eligible to utilize public services like NHS healthcare and state schooling if relocating with dependents.
I hope this detailed guide has provided you with valuable information about the UK Construction Visa Sponsorship Scheme and how it can potentially open up an excellent career opportunity overseas with multiple benefits. Please do your own thorough research to decide if this pathway is suitable for your skills and circumstances. Let me know if any other part needs further clarification.
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