As a renowned sports hub, the UK hosts numerous sporting events each year, attracting sportspersons from all over the globe.
Depending on the sporting event you are looking to participate in, you may enter the UK as a visitor for a paid engagement or event via the standard UK visitor visa. If you are a professional sportsperson, this visa allows you to be paid for activities that directly relate to your full-time profession, such as participating in a sporting event.
You will also need to show that you have an invitation from a UK-based sports organisation that organises or hosts sporting events or matches, or from an agency or broadcaster.
It is important to note that along with your UK-based invitation, you will also need to demonstrate that you are an established sportsperson in your home country. This can be evidenced via media coverage, proof of recent performances or through any awards that you may have received.
Please be aware that you can come to the UK for up to 6 months, but you must participate in the relevant sporting event in the first month of your arrival. All visitors entering the UK for a particular sporting event must comply with the standard visitor rules, along with the requirements outlined above.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
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