Sports people

Applications will fall under Tier 2 PBS from the third quarter of 2008 along with applications under the existing work permit scheme.

This category is not concerned with temporary sports people who may be in Tier 5 PBS or through rule changes envisaged for 2009, in a special visit category. This category concerns sports people coming to establish themselves in the UK.

Sports clubs who wish to issue certificates of sponsorship will themselves require to obtain licences specific to this category of the PBS. A pre-condition is that they hold a Governing Body Endorsement for their sport.

It currently seems likely that the main features of the work permit scheme will remain such that:

• An applicant worker must have an established international reputation;

• Will not displace or exclude resident workers;

• In-country switching is possible;

• Supplementary work up to 20 hours a week in the same sport may be allowed without further permission.

Applications for Sponsorship Licences are currently invited from organisations who may wish to sponsor sports people within Tier 2.

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