The UK Temporary Work – International Agreement visa is a specialist immigration route allowing overseas nationals to undertake work in the UK that is directly covered by international law or treaty. It applies to certain categories such as employees of overseas governments, workers assigned by recognised international organisations, and private servants in diplomatic households. This is a strictly regulated, sponsored visa category that does not provide a direct pathway to UK settlement.
What this article is about: This comprehensive guide explains who the International Agreement visa is for, what the visa permits, how it compares with other routes such as the Service Supplier visa, eligibility rules, supporting documents, costs, application process, conditions, and extension options. It also looks at common compliance issues and practical considerations for applicants and sponsors.
Section A: What is the International Agreement visa?
The International Agreement visa (Temporary Work) is designed for overseas nationals whose work in the UK is governed by an international treaty or agreement. This includes employment with a foreign government or a recognised international organisation, as well as private servants in diplomatic households. Applicants must be sponsored by an approved employer with a valid sponsor licence for this route, and the work undertaken must fall within the scope of the relevant international agreement.
1. Definition and purpose
An International Agreement worker is an overseas national who has been contracted to perform duties in the UK covered by international law or treaty. These arrangements reflect the UK’s international obligations, ensuring that staff of foreign governments, intergovernmental organisations, and certain diplomatic households can be lawfully employed in the UK under controlled conditions.
2. Categories covered
The visa applies to three primary categories of worker:
- Employees of overseas governments assigned to the UK.
- Employees of recognised international organisations established by treaty to which the UK is a signatory.
- Private servants employed in diplomatic households or in the households of certain officials of recognised international organisations.
3. What the visa allows
Visa-holders are permitted to undertake the sponsored role described on their Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS). They may also study, subject to ATAS clearance where required, and travel abroad and re-enter the UK during their visa validity. Secondary employment of up to 20 hours per week is permitted only for overseas government and international organisation workers, provided the work is outside the hours of the sponsored job and is either in the same sector or on the Skilled Worker immigration salary list. Private servants in diplomatic households cannot undertake supplementary employment.
4. Length of stay
The permitted stay depends on the category of work:
- Overseas government or international organisation workers: up to 2 years, or the time stated on the CoS plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.
- Private servants in diplomatic households: up to 5 years in total, granted in increments of up to 2 years or the CoS period plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.
5. Dependants
Partners and dependent children under 18 can apply to join the main visa-holder, provided they meet the eligibility rules. Dependants are permitted to work in the UK (except as professional sportspersons or coaches) and to study. Financial requirements apply unless the sponsor certifies maintenance on the CoS.
6. International Agreement visa vs Service Supplier visa
It is important to distinguish the International Agreement visa from the Service Supplier visa under the Global Business Mobility routes. Contractual service suppliers and independent professionals providing services to a UK client under a qualifying trade agreement must apply under the Service Supplier category. The International Agreement route is limited to overseas government staff, international organisation employees, and private servants in diplomatic households.
7. Key costs and processing times
- Application fee: £319 per applicant (same inside or outside the UK).
- Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year, unless exempt.
- Processing times: typically 3 weeks outside the UK; 8 weeks inside the UK for extensions. Priority and super-priority services may be available for an additional fee.
Section Summary: The International Agreement visa is a narrow, treaty-based route allowing specific categories of overseas staff and household workers to lawfully work in the UK under sponsorship. It sets clear rules on who can apply, what activities are permitted, maximum duration of stay, and dependant rights. Crucially, service providers under trade agreements must use the Service Supplier route instead.
Section B: Eligibility Criteria for the International Agreement visa
Applicants must satisfy a combination of age, sponsorship, role-specific, and financial criteria. Sponsors must also meet strict licensing conditions. These requirements reflect the UK’s commitments under international law and ensure that the route is used only for genuine treaty-based employment.
1. Age requirement
Applicants must be aged 18 or over at the date of application. This is a minimum threshold that applies across all International Agreement visa categories.
2. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
A valid Certificate of Sponsorship is required. The CoS must:
- Be issued by a licensed sponsor authorised for the International Agreement route.
- Confirm the job role, salary, and duration of employment.
- Have been assigned no more than 3 months before the visa application date.
- Include details of maintenance certification, if the sponsor is covering financial support.
If the CoS is assigned outside the 3-month window or contains incorrect information, the application is likely to be refused.
3. Qualifying employment
The applicant must be undertaking work that falls within one of the following categories:
- Overseas government worker – staff employed by a foreign government in the UK.
- International organisation employee – staff employed by an organisation recognised by treaty and listed by the UK government (e.g., UN, World Bank, NATO).
- Private servant in a diplomatic household – full-time staff employed in the private household of a diplomat with privileges and immunities, or of an official of a recognised international organisation.
Work must be directly related to the functions of the sponsor and fall under the scope of an international treaty. Service provision to UK-based clients under trade agreements is excluded; those applicants must use the Service Supplier visa.
4. Financial requirement
Unless exempt, applicants must show proof of personal maintenance funds:
- £1,270 for the main applicant.
- £285 for a partner.
- £315 for the first dependent child.
- £200 for each additional child.
The funds must have been held for 28 consecutive days, ending no more than 31 days before the application. This requirement is waived if the applicant has lived lawfully in the UK for at least 12 months or if the sponsor certifies maintenance on the CoS for the full family group.
5. Sponsor eligibility
Employers must hold a valid sponsor licence for the International Agreement route. To qualify, a sponsor must be recognised by the UK as either:
- An overseas government body, such as an embassy or consulate of a recognised state.
- A recognised international organisation established by treaty to which the UK is a party and which appears on the Home Office’s list of exempt organisations.
Individual diplomats do not hold sponsor licences. The formal sponsor is the embassy, mission, or international organisation, though the CoS may name the household of an eligible official for private servant roles. Sponsors must also ensure compliance with UK minimum wage and working time regulations.
6. Special requirements for private servants
Applicants working as private servants in diplomatic households must meet additional conditions:
- Employment must be full-time in the household of a named diplomat or recognised international organisation official with privileges and immunities.
- The worker cannot be a relative of the diplomat or official.
- The role must meet UK National Minimum Wage requirements.
- A signed Domestic Worker Statement (Appendix Domestic Worker) must be provided.
- For entry clearance, applicants must meet the English language requirement at CEFR level B1.
- For extensions, the worker must provide at least three months’ evidence of salary payments.
Section Summary: To be eligible for the International Agreement visa, applicants must be at least 18, hold a valid CoS assigned by a licensed sponsor, and be employed in a role covered by an international agreement. Financial requirements apply unless exempt, and sponsors must be overseas governments or recognised international organisations. Private servants in diplomatic households face additional conditions, including proof of full-time household employment, National Minimum Wage compliance, and English language ability for entry clearance.
Section C: Application Process and Required Documents
The International Agreement visa application must be submitted online and supported by evidence that the applicant meets all requirements. Initial applications must be made from outside the UK. Extensions are permitted in-country for those already holding or last having held permission under this route. Switching into the International Agreement category from another visa is not allowed.
1. When to apply
Applications can be submitted up to 3 months before the intended start date of the role in the UK, as stated on the Certificate of Sponsorship. Applicants should allow sufficient time for processing and factor in the requirement to provide biometric information and supporting documents.
2. Step-by-step application guide
The process involves the following stages:
- Step 1 – Confirm eligibility: Ensure you meet the age, sponsorship, role-specific, and financial requirements.
- Step 2 – Prepare documents: Gather passports, sponsorship details, financial evidence, and category-specific documentation.
- Step 3 – Complete the online application form: Apply through the official UK government visa portal, selecting “Temporary Work – International Agreement visa.”
- Step 4 – Pay fees: Pay the £319 application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year unless exempt).
- Step 5 – Provide biometrics: Use the UK Immigration ID Check app (if eligible) or attend a visa application centre for fingerprints and a photograph.
- Step 6 – Upload supporting documents: Submit evidence through the online portal or at your biometric appointment.
- Step 7 – Await decision: Standard processing times are 3 weeks for out-of-country applications and 8 weeks for extensions in the UK. Priority services may be available for an additional fee.
- Step 8 – Receive outcome: If approved, you will receive either a vignette to enter the UK or a digital eVisa confirming your immigration status.
3. Processing times
UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) aims to process applications within:
- 3 weeks for applications made outside the UK.
- 8 weeks for applications made inside the UK (extensions or renewals).
Faster services may be available for additional fees: priority (5 working days, £500) and super priority (24 hours, £1,000). Availability depends on location and demand.
4. Fees
The following charges apply per applicant:
- Application fee: £319 (same inside or outside the UK).
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): £1,035 per year, unless exempt under treaty arrangements.
5. Required documents
Applicants should expect to provide the following documents as a minimum:
- A valid passport or travel document with at least one blank page.
- Certificate of Sponsorship reference number from the licensed sponsor.
- Proof of employment under the relevant international agreement (such as a diplomatic letter or contract with an international organisation).
- Evidence of personal maintenance funds, unless exempt or maintenance is certified by the sponsor.
- Biometric information (fingerprints and photograph).
- TB test certificate, if required by Appendix Tuberculosis.
- ATAS certificate, where applicable for research or academic roles.
- For private servants: a signed Domestic Worker Statement, evidence of English B1 for entry clearance, and payslips if applying for an extension.
6. Tips for supporting documents
- Check that names, dates, and job details match exactly across all documents.
- Provide certified translations for any documents not in English or Welsh.
- Organise and label documents clearly before submission.
- Keep copies of all submissions for your records.
Section Summary: The application process for the International Agreement visa is online and begins outside the UK. Applicants must present a valid CoS, pay the required fees, and provide biometric and documentary evidence. Supporting documents must be complete, accurate, and, where necessary, translated and certified. Incomplete or inconsistent applications are a common reason for refusal.
Section D: Visa Conditions, Rights and Restrictions
Visa-holders must comply with conditions attached to the International Agreement route. These govern the type of work that can be carried out, whether supplementary employment is permitted, and the rights of dependants. Breaching these conditions can lead to curtailment of leave and affect future immigration applications.
1. Work conditions
You may only work in the role described on your Certificate of Sponsorship for your licensed sponsor. Your role must fall under an international agreement or treaty recognised by the UK government. You cannot start work until your visa is granted, and you must stop working if your visa expires or is curtailed. Any breach of these conditions risks immigration enforcement action.
2. Supplementary employment
Overseas government and international organisation workers may undertake supplementary employment of up to 20 hours per week, but only if it is:
- Outside the hours of the sponsored job.
- In the same occupation code and sector as the sponsored role, or
- On the Skilled Worker Immigration Salary List.
Private servants in diplomatic households are not permitted to take supplementary employment.
3. Dependants’ rights
Partners and dependent children under 18 can join the main visa-holder if eligible. Dependants are permitted to work in the UK, including in self-employment and voluntary roles, but not as professional sportspersons or sports coaches. They may also study without restriction, although some courses may require ATAS clearance. Dependants’ visas are usually issued in line with the main applicant’s leave.
4. Duration of stay
The maximum length of stay depends on the applicant’s role:
- Overseas government or international organisation workers: up to 24 months or the period on the CoS plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.
- Private servants in diplomatic households: up to 5 years in total, granted in increments of no more than 2 years or the CoS period plus 14 days, whichever is shorter.
Visa-holders are permitted to enter the UK up to 14 days before their job start date as stated on the CoS, and remain for up to 14 days after it ends, provided this does not exceed the category limit.
5. Studying
You may study in the UK while holding an International Agreement visa, provided study does not interfere with your sponsored role. For certain postgraduate courses in sensitive subjects, an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate is required before starting study.
6. Public funds
Holders of the International Agreement visa cannot access public funds, including welfare benefits. Applicants must demonstrate financial independence or rely on maintenance certified by their sponsor.
7. Extensions
Visa-holders may apply to extend their stay if they continue to meet the requirements of the route. Extension applications must be submitted before the current permission expires, and the applicant must not travel outside the UK while it is being considered. Dependants must apply separately to extend their visas; their leave will not automatically continue if only the main applicant extends.
8. Route to settlement
The International Agreement visa is not a direct path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Once the visa expires, applicants wishing to settle in the UK must switch into another category that leads to settlement, such as the Skilled Worker visa, provided they meet the requirements of that route. Earlier provisions allowing settlement for private servants have been removed from the Rules.
Section Summary: International Agreement visa-holders must work only for their sponsor in the role set out in the CoS, comply with restrictions on supplementary employment, and ensure they do not breach conditions on public funds or duration of stay. Dependants enjoy broad rights to work and study. While the visa can be extended, it does not lead directly to settlement, requiring applicants to switch to another eligible route for long-term residence in the UK.
Section E: Common Application Mistakes and Compliance Risks
Applications under the International Agreement route are often refused due to avoidable errors. Sponsors and applicants must pay careful attention to the detail of the Immigration Rules and guidance to prevent delays, additional costs, or outright refusal. Below are the most frequent issues encountered and how to avoid them.
1. Incomplete or inaccurate application forms
Missing information or inconsistencies between the online form and supporting documents can lead to refusal. Common issues include incorrect passport numbers, mismatched job details, and omitted travel history. All details must match exactly across the CoS, application, and supporting documents.
2. Errors in the Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications are frequently rejected because the CoS contains errors. This may include an incorrect occupation code, job description, or failure to certify maintenance. Sponsors must carefully check the CoS before assigning it, as even minor discrepancies can invalidate the application.
3. Insufficient financial evidence
Where maintenance funds are required, applicants must show £1,270 for themselves, plus additional sums for dependants. Bank statements must clearly show that funds were held for 28 consecutive days within the 31-day window before the application. Using the wrong documents or failing to meet the timescale will usually result in refusal.
4. Late or missed biometric submissions
Failure to attend a biometric appointment on time, or delays in using the UK Immigration ID Check app where eligible, can hold up or invalidate an application. Applicants should book and attend appointments promptly and retain confirmation of submission.
5. Supporting documents not meeting UKVI standards
Applications may be delayed or refused where documents are unclear, illegible, or not translated correctly. Translations must be certified, include the translator’s credentials, and confirm accuracy. Sponsors and applicants should prepare documents in the order and format requested by UKVI.
6. Misunderstanding work conditions
Some applicants mistakenly assume they can work freely in the UK. In reality, International Agreement visa-holders are restricted to the job on their CoS, with limited supplementary work rights only for overseas government and international organisation workers. Private servants cannot take secondary employment. Breaches of these rules can result in cancellation of leave.
7. Applying under the wrong route
Contractual service suppliers and independent professionals are no longer eligible under the International Agreement route. They must use the Service Supplier visa under the Global Business Mobility category. Applications made under the wrong route will be refused.
8. Ignoring deadlines and validity periods
Applications must be submitted within 3 months of the CoS being assigned. Applicants should also apply well in advance of their travel date to avoid disruption. Submitting late or with an expired CoS will lead to automatic rejection.
Section Summary: The most common reasons for refusal are errors in the CoS, missing or incorrect supporting documents, insufficient maintenance evidence, and misunderstandings of visa conditions. Sponsors and applicants can significantly reduce risks by double-checking all documents, ensuring financial proofs are valid, meeting biometric deadlines, and applying under the correct visa category.
Section F: Rights and Responsibilities of Visa Holders
Holders of the International Agreement visa are granted specific rights while in the UK, but they must also comply with strict responsibilities. Breaching visa conditions can result in cancellation of leave, financial penalties, and difficulties with future immigration applications. Sponsors also have compliance duties to uphold throughout the visa-holder’s stay.
1. Employment rights
Visa-holders can work only in the role and for the sponsor stated on their Certificate of Sponsorship. Overseas government and international organisation workers may undertake supplementary work in limited circumstances, but private servants in diplomatic households cannot take additional jobs. Working outside the visa conditions risks curtailment and enforcement action.
2. Dependants’ rights
Dependants are permitted to live in the UK for the same period as the main visa-holder, provided they apply separately and are approved. They may work in most roles, including self-employment and voluntary positions, but not as professional sportspersons or coaches. They are also free to study. Dependants’ rights end when the main visa-holder’s permission expires, unless they extend at the same time.
3. Healthcare
Visa-holders and their dependants are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their application, unless exempt under treaty arrangements. Once paid, they gain access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for the duration of their stay. Some diplomatic roles may qualify for exemption under international law.
4. Public funds restriction
International Agreement visa-holders and their dependants cannot access public funds. This means they cannot claim UK welfare benefits, tax credits, or housing support. Applicants must demonstrate they can support themselves without relying on public funds.
5. Tax and compliance with UK law
Visa-holders are generally required to pay UK tax on income earned in the UK. They must register with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) and comply with all UK tax and employment laws. Beyond tax, visa-holders must obey all UK laws, and any criminal conduct could affect their immigration status.
6. Reporting obligations
Visa-holders must keep their details up to date with UKVI, including changes of address, contact details, and family circumstances. Any change to the employment relationship must also be reported by the sponsor to the Home Office. Non-compliance by either party can result in visa cancellation or sponsor licence penalties.
7. Extensions and limitations
Visa-holders may apply to extend their visa provided they continue to meet the requirements of the route. However, maximum time limits apply: 2 years for overseas government and international organisation workers, and 5 years for private servants in diplomatic households. There is no direct path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Applicants seeking permanent settlement must switch into a different route, such as the Skilled Worker visa, if eligible.
Section Summary: International Agreement visa-holders can work only for their sponsor, while dependants enjoy broad rights to work and study. All visa-holders must pay the IHS, cannot access public funds, and must comply with UK tax and legal obligations. Extensions are available but capped, and there is no settlement route, meaning a switch to another category is necessary for long-term residence.
Section G: Summary and Key Takeaways
The International Agreement visa is a highly specific immigration route designed to give effect to the UK’s obligations under international law and treaty arrangements. It is available only to employees of overseas governments, recognised international organisations, and private servants in diplomatic households. It does not extend to contractual service suppliers or independent professionals, who must apply under the Service Supplier visa.
Applications require a valid Certificate of Sponsorship from a licensed sponsor, proof of financial means (unless exempt), and documentary evidence tailored to the applicant’s role. Dependants can join the main visa-holder and are granted wide work and study rights, subject to certain restrictions. However, visa-holders and their families cannot access public funds.
The maximum length of stay is capped: two years for overseas government and international organisation workers, and five years for private servants, usually in increments of two years. Although extensions are possible within these limits, the International Agreement visa does not provide a direct pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain. Those seeking permanent settlement must switch into a different visa category that leads to ILR.
Common pitfalls include errors on the Certificate of Sponsorship, insufficient financial evidence, misunderstandings about supplementary work, and applying under the wrong visa route. Both sponsors and applicants must follow UKVI requirements closely to ensure compliance and avoid refusal.
Section Summary: The International Agreement visa is narrow in scope, limited in duration, and subject to strict compliance requirements. It provides lawful entry for those working in the UK under international law, but applicants should be aware of its restrictions, particularly the absence of a settlement route, and plan their long-term immigration strategy accordingly.
Section H: International Agreement Visa FAQs
1. What is the International Agreement visa?
It is a UK temporary work visa for overseas nationals contracted to perform work covered by international law or treaty. Eligible roles include employees of overseas governments, recognised international organisations, and private servants in diplomatic households.
2. Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be 18 or over, have a valid Certificate of Sponsorship issued by a licensed sponsor for this route, and be employed in a role that falls within the scope of an international agreement. Financial maintenance requirements must also be met unless exempt.
3. How long can I stay in the UK on this visa?
Overseas government and international organisation workers can stay for up to 2 years. Private servants in diplomatic households can stay for a maximum of 5 years, usually in increments of up to 2 years at a time.
4. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. Partners and dependent children under 18 may apply to join you as dependants. They are permitted to work and study, subject to certain restrictions. Financial requirements apply unless your sponsor certifies maintenance on the CoS.
5. Can I take a second job?
Only overseas government and international organisation workers may take supplementary work, up to 20 hours per week, outside the hours of their main job. The second role must either be in the same occupation code and sector or on the Skilled Worker Immigration Salary List. Private servants cannot take supplementary jobs.
6. Can I access public funds?
No. Neither visa-holders nor their dependants are permitted to claim public funds, such as welfare benefits or housing assistance, while in the UK.
7. Does the visa lead to settlement (ILR)?
No. The International Agreement visa does not provide a direct route to Indefinite Leave to Remain. Applicants who wish to settle must switch into another immigration category, such as the Skilled Worker visa, if eligible.
8. How much does the visa cost?
The application fee is £319 per person, whether applying from inside or outside the UK. In addition, most applicants must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £1,035 per year, unless exempt under treaty arrangements.
9. How long does it take to get a decision?
Applications made outside the UK are usually decided within 3 weeks. Applications made inside the UK for an extension typically take up to 8 weeks. Priority and super-priority services may be available for an additional fee, depending on location.
10. What documents will I need?
You will need a valid passport, your Certificate of Sponsorship reference number, proof of employment under an international agreement, evidence of personal funds (unless exempt), biometric data, and where applicable, a TB test certificate, ATAS certificate, or Domestic Worker Statement. Private servants must also meet the English B1 language requirement for entry clearance.
Section Summary: The FAQs highlight key areas of user interest: who qualifies, how long the visa lasts, dependant rights, costs, work restrictions, and whether it leads to settlement. These cover the main search queries around the International Agreement visa and clarify the most common applicant concerns.
Section I: Glossary of Terms
| International Agreement visa | A UK Temporary Work route for overseas government employees, international organisation staff, and private servants in diplomatic households. |
| Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) | A digital reference number issued by a licensed UK sponsor confirming the role and employment details of the visa applicant. |
| Sponsor | A UK-based embassy, consulate, or recognised international organisation licensed to assign Certificates of Sponsorship under this visa route. |
| Dependants | A partner or children under 18 who may apply to accompany or join the main visa-holder in the UK. |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | A fee payable by most visa applicants to access the UK’s National Health Service during their stay. |
| Public funds | UK welfare benefits and housing support, which visa-holders and their dependants cannot access while on this route. |
| Supplementary employment | Limited additional work permitted only for overseas government and international organisation workers, subject to strict conditions. Not available to private servants. |
| ATAS certificate | Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance, required for study in sensitive subjects at postgraduate level. |
| Exempt vignette | A visa exemption provided to diplomats and some international organisation officials with full privileges and immunities, who do not require an International Agreement visa. |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | Permanent residence in the UK. The International Agreement visa does not provide a direct route to ILR. |
Section J: Useful Links & Resources
| International Agreement visa (GOV.UK) | Official overview: eligibility, apply, fees |
| Visa sponsorship for employers | How organisations get a sponsor licence and assign CoS |
| Apply to come to the UK | Start an application and check requirements |
| Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) | IHS rates, who must pay, exemptions |
| ATAS (Academic Technology Approval Scheme) | When ATAS is required for study |
| Tuberculosis testing for UK visa | Who needs a TB test and approved clinics |
| Right to work checks (employers) | Employer guidance on right to work |
| DavidsonMorris – International Agreement visa | Guidance for applicants and sponsors |
| Xpats.io – International Agreement visa | Full guide for overseas workers and employers |
