Voluntary workers

Currently visas are granted in accordance with Annex B to Section 9 of Chapter 17 The Immigration Directorate Instructions.

For the reason that the employment is short term, unpaid, and suitable arrangements are made for maintenance and accommodation by an organisation listed in the section, visas are issued outside the immigration rules. Visas are similarly issued for voluntary work of a manual, clerical or secretarial nature with religious organisations where stay will not exceed 12 months.

From the third quarter of 2008, when Tier 5 PBS is proposed to commence, sponsoring charities will require to obtain a sponsor's licence, in order to issue certificates of sponsorship to voluntary workers. Specific sponsors' licences will be required for voluntary sector workers even if the sponsor is already licensed in another category.

MfB can advise on and assist with applications before formal pre-assessment; generating or evaluating support documentation; assisting with reviews and appeals.