UK Resignation Visa: All You Need to Know

Are you a non-UK national who wants to leave your job in the UK but continue living in the country on a temporary basis? Then, you might be wondering if there’s a visa for that – and the answer is yes. It’s called the UK resignation visa, and in this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about it.

What Is a UK Resignation Visa?

The UK resignation visa, officially known as the Tier 5 (Temporary Worker – Government Authorised Exchange) visa, is a type of temporary visa that allows non-UK nationals to remain in the country for up to 2 years after they have resigned from their job. The visa is intended to give former employees enough time to find a new job or wrap up their affairs in the UK.

Who Is Eligible for a UK Resignation Visa?

To be eligible for a UK resignation visa, you must meet the following criteria:

You must be a non-EEA (European Economic Area) national

You must have worked in the UK legally for at least 12 months before resigning

You must have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer who is a licensed Tier 5 sponsor

You must score enough points on the Tier 5 points system, which assesses your suitability for the visa based on factors such as your age, English language proficiency, and funds available for maintenance

How to Apply for a UK Resignation Visa?

To apply for a UK resignation visa, you must follow these steps:

Obtain a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a UK employer who is a licensed Tier 5 sponsor

Complete the online visa application form and pay the visa fee (currently ￡244 for applications made outside the UK and ￡37 for biometric residence permits)

Provide your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at a UK visa application centre in your home country

Submit your supporting documents, including your passport, proof of your previous employment in the UK, evidence of your English language proficiency, and proof of your available funds for maintenance

Attend an interview (if required)

The processing time for a UK resignation visa application is typically around 3 weeks, but it may take longer if you need to attend an interview or if there are errors or omissions in your application or supporting documents.

What Can You Do on a UK Resignation Visa?

On a UK resignation visa, you can:

Look for a new job in the UK and switch to another visa category if you find a suitable employer

Start your own business in the UK

Study in the UK (part-time or full-time)

Volunteer or do unpaid work

Travel in and out of the UK during the validity of your visa

Bring your dependents (spouse, unmarried partner, or child under 18) to the UK on a Tier 5 dependant visa

However, you cannot use a UK resignation visa to:

Work for your previous employer or any other employer as a Tier 5 migrant

Get public funds

Get married or form a civil partnership in the UK

Extend your stay beyond the 2-year limit

What Happens When Your UK Resignation Visa Expires?

When your UK resignation visa expires, you must either leave the UK or switch to another visa category if you are eligible and want to continue living in the country. If you overstay your visa, you may be subject to penalties, enforcement action, or even deportation.

In conclusion, the UK resignation visa is a useful option for non-UK nationals who want to leave their job in the country but stay temporarily to sort out their affairs or find a new job. If you are eligible, follow the application process carefully and comply with the visa conditions during your stay in the UK. Good luck!